Bill > S00331

This bill creates a temporary state commission called the "Commission on Affordable College Education" to investigate the participation of SUNY community colleges in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), a financial and academic support program for disadvantaged students. Currently, twelve out of thirty SUNY community colleges do not participate in EOP, which can potentially disqualify transfer students from receiving crucial financial aid. The commission will consist of thirteen members appointed by various state leaders, including the governor, senate president, assembly speaker, and minority leaders, who must have expertise in higher education or EOP. Commission members will not be compensated but will be reimbursed for necessary expenses, and they can conduct studies, hold hearings, and collaborate with public and private agencies. The commission is tasked with examining the need for these community colleges to participate in EOP and considering potential legislative changes to transfer student eligibility criteria. Within one year of the bill's effective date, the commission must submit a report with its findings and recommendations to the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker. The bill will take effect ninety days after becoming law and will automatically expire two years later.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S331