Bill > S02314

This bill extends tuition-free course auditing benefits to active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers at state universities and community colleges, in addition to the existing benefit for individuals over 60 years old. Currently, people aged 60 and older can audit courses without tuition, examination, grading, or credit on a space-available basis. The new provisions allow active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers (as defined in the general municipal law) to do the same. Furthermore, the bill authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to create regulations that would allow these volunteer emergency workers to potentially receive course credit for successfully completing an audited course, either if they are currently enrolled or become enrolled as full-time or part-time students in the future. This change aims to provide educational opportunities and recognition for those who serve their communities through volunteer emergency services. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law, giving institutions time to implement the new regulations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2314