Bill > S00553

This bill amends the New York State Education Law to expand religious holiday accommodations for students in higher education institutions, specifically the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY). The bill mandates that students who are unable to attend classes, register, or participate in academic activities due to religious beliefs must be accommodated without penalty, including being provided equivalent opportunities to make up missed work or exams. Notably, the bill specifically includes the Asian Lunar New Year as a cultural observance that will be treated similarly to religious holidays, ensuring students who celebrate this event can be excused from academic activities without academic repercussions. The legislation requires educational institutions to provide written notice to students about these rights, exercise good faith in implementation, and prohibits charging any fees for accommodating religious or cultural observances. If an institution fails to comply, students are entitled to file an action in the supreme court to enforce their rights. The bill applies to post-secondary institutions recognized by CUNY's board of trustees, with some exclusions for religious training institutions, and takes effect immediately upon passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S553