Bill > S00627

This bill modifies the composition and appointment rules for trustees of the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY), specifically adding a new restriction that prevents governors and mayors from appointing paid employees who serve at their pleasure to the university boards. For SUNY, the board will continue to consist of 18 members, with 15 appointed by the governor, one student assembly president (ex-officio and voting), one university faculty senate president (ex-officio and non-voting), and one faculty council of community colleges president (ex-officio and non-voting). For CUNY, the board will remain 17 trustees, with 10 appointed by the governor, 5 appointed by the New York City mayor, one student senate chairperson (ex-officio), and one faculty senate chairperson (ex-officio and non-voting). The key change is the new prohibition on appointing individuals who are paid employees serving at the pleasure of the governor or mayor, which aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest and ensure more independent board membership. The bill will take effect immediately and apply to new trustees appointed after its effective date.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S627