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Bill > S04551
NY S04551
NY S04551Creates within SUNY an office of higher education in prison to coordinate access to higher education for individuals during and after incarceration; directs such office to create a plan by 1/1/2029 to establish a degree-granting program in every viable correctional facility in the state; directs such office to enroll at least 2,000 students in degree-granting programs as soon as practicable; makes related provisions.
summary
Introduced
02/06/2025
02/06/2025
In Committee
01/07/2026
01/07/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 General Assembly
Bill Summary
AN ACT to amend the education law, in relation to degree-granting programs offered by SUNY's office of higher education in prison
AI Summary
This bill creates an Office of Higher Education in Prison within the State University of New York (SUNY) to expand educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. The office will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive plan to establish degree-granting programs in every viable correctional facility in New York state by January 1, 2029. The bill mandates that the office enroll at least 2,000 students in these degree-granting programs as soon as possible. Additionally, the Commissioner of Corrections and Community Supervision will collaborate with SUNY and the new office to maximize educational opportunities for incarcerated students, including helping them access federal and state financial aid. The goal of this legislation is to promote and coordinate higher education access for individuals during and after their incarceration, potentially supporting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism by providing educational pathways for inmates.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
RECOMMIT, ENACTING CLAUSE STRICKEN (on 01/09/2026)
Official Document
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