Bill > A01322

This bill establishes a novel virus essential workers scholarship program to provide financial support for essential employees who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic or another novel virus outbreak, as well as for children of essential employees who died from such viruses. The scholarship will cover tuition, mandatory fees, and non-tuition costs of attendance at New York state universities and approved programs, with the amount varying based on the specific institution attended. Eligibility is limited to essential workers who worked during a state disaster emergency caused by a novel virus (defined as a virus or bacterial strain not previously identified in humans) and their children. The scholarships can be awarded for up to four academic years of undergraduate study, or five years for programs that typically require five years. The commissioner of education will determine the specific criteria for who qualifies as an essential employee. The bill ensures that the total financial aid received by a student cannot exceed their total cost of attendance, and the scholarships are designed to complement, not duplicate, other existing financial aid programs.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1322