Bill > S04559

This bill requires every college and university in New York state to appoint a Title VI coordinator within 90 days to ensure compliance with Title VI of the 1964 federal Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal funding. The coordinator will have multiple key responsibilities, including offering supportive measures to students who report discrimination, notifying students about the institution's policies and procedures for reporting harassment, and maintaining comprehensive records of discrimination reports. The division of human rights will develop model training programs that must be delivered annually to all students and employees, covering equal access and participation. The Title VI coordinator must provide an annual notification to the entire institution that includes the nondiscrimination policy statement, website links to reporting procedures, their contact information, and other relevant details. The coordinator may have designees to assist with these responsibilities but remains ultimately accountable for the institution's compliance. The bill also mandates that the coordinator and any designees receive specific training about their duties under Title VI and be prepared to investigate and resolve discrimination complaints consistent with federal and state law. The act will take effect one year after becoming law, allowing institutions time to prepare and implement the required processes.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4559