Bill > S02274

This bill enacts "The New Deal for CUNY," a comprehensive reform of the City University of New York (CUNY) system aimed at improving educational quality and accessibility. The legislation introduces several key provisions: First, it mandates a gradual increase in the ratio of full-time faculty members to students, starting at 45 faculty members per 1,000 students in 2027-2028 and eventually reaching 65 faculty members per 1,000 students by 2031-2032. Second, it requires each CUNY campus to maintain a minimum ratio of mental health counselors, beginning with one clinical mental health staff member per 1,000 students, and establishes advisory boards to review and potentially adjust these ratios. Third, the bill creates a mechanism for full reimbursement of tuition and student fees for in-state undergraduate students who are on track to graduate, effectively restoring free tuition. Additionally, the bill addresses compensation for part-time and adjunct faculty by ensuring they receive wages comparable to full-time lecturers and professors with similar responsibilities. The legislation also requires the governor to submit five-year capital plans for CUNY and SUNY to address critical maintenance needs, with an emphasis on improving campus infrastructure and facilities. Overall, the bill aims to reinvigorate CUNY's historical mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to urban students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2274