Bill > S04623

This bill amends the New York State Education Law to require the Board of Regents to obtain legislative approval before adopting any rule or regulation that constitutes an "unfunded mandate" affecting school districts. The bill defines an unfunded mandate as any new rule or regulation that would result in additional costs to a school district, either through creating a new program or requiring a higher level of service for an existing program, after subtracting potential offsetting revenues like fees, state or federal funds, or savings from eliminating other programs. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that prohibits the Board of Regents or the Commissioner of Education from adopting such unfunded mandates without a majority vote of the legislature. The bill aims to provide financial protection for school districts by ensuring that any new requirements imposed by educational regulations do not create unexpected financial burdens without legislative oversight and approval. This represents a significant check on the Board of Regents' traditional authority to set educational policies and rules, giving the state legislature more direct control over potential financial impacts on local school districts.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4623