Bill > S03139

This bill establishes a statewide program to provide free tuition to active volunteer firefighters, emergency medical services providers, and auxiliary police officers at State University of New York (SUNY), City University of New York (CUNY), and community colleges. To be eligible, students must be New York residents, maintain good standing in their volunteer organization throughout their academic program, and maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average (GPA). Participants must first apply for existing tuition assistance programs like the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and Excelsior Scholarship, which will be applied before this new benefit. The program covers tuition for one undergraduate degree, and students will still be responsible for other costs such as housing, fees, and additional charges. If a student fails to meet the program's requirements, such as maintaining volunteer status or academic performance, they will be required to convert their tuition benefit to a student loan with interest. The bill applies to all state-operated institutions and community colleges, providing an incentive for young people to engage in volunteer emergency services while pursuing higher education.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3139