Some lawmakers question need for it as a handful of schools are already planning to do so
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Textbooks, like the ones seen in this Princeton University bookstore, may be cheaper after the N.J. Assembly passed a bill allowing colleges and universities to rent textbooks to students. An Assembly panel cleared a bill today that would authorize colleges and universities to rent textbooks, though with some New Jersey institutions already doing that, a couple lawmakers questioned why the bill was necessary.
The bill (A1236), sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Stender (D-Union), passed the Assembly Higher Education Committee 6-0 with two abstentions. It allows, but does not require, institutions to establish the programs.
Over a dozen New Jersey colleges and universities — including Rutgers and Montclair State — are launching textbook rental programs this year.
Assemblyman John DiMaio (R-Warren) said the panel should focus instead on whether college booksellers markup the prices of textbooks at too high a rate.
"I don't think it's necessary. I think it's already happening. We really need to look at the markups," he said.
Assemblyman Sam Thompson (R-Middlesex) said the bill allows store to charge 50 percent of the book's purchase price, which seems too high.
Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt (D-Camden) said some colleges will do it willingly but "there are other colleges that need a push."
Assembly Democratic Spokesman Tom Hester, Jr. said the bill is meant to encourage more universities to set up rental programs.
"The bill aims to promote this idea so more colleges can take part, recognizing that the cost of attending public institutions of higher education continues to increase and that many New Jersey students and their families find it difficult to afford the textbooks that students are required to purchase for their courses," he said.
