Bill > S00178

This bill establishes a new school air conditioning system grant program designed to help schools install air conditioning systems in areas where students learn and gather. The program, to be administered by the New York State Department of Education, will provide grants with priority given to schools that currently have no air conditioning systems. The bill broadly defines "schools" to include public, private, and charter primary and secondary schools, as well as special education programs and BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services). "Covered areas" include classrooms, cafeterias, gymnasiums, libraries, and other spaces where students congregate for educational purposes. To fund this initiative, the bill appropriates $500 million from the state treasury's general fund, specifically allocating these funds to help schools offset the costs of installing air conditioning systems. The grants will be distributed by the commissioner of education, with payment processed through the state comptroller's standard audit and warrant procedures. The act is designed to take effect immediately upon passage, providing quick support for schools seeking to improve their climate control infrastructure.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S178