Bill > A05542

This bill updates the admission criteria for the Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) and Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) to consider ethnic representation in various professional fields. The bill replaces previous language that focused on minority status with a more nuanced approach that allows students from ethnic groups underrepresented in their chosen profession to be eligible for these educational support programs. The changes require the New York State Board of Regents to periodically review workforce data and identify underrepresentation in specific professional fields, including scientific, technical, health, and licensed professions. The legislative findings emphasize the importance of workforce diversity, citing studies that show diverse teams perform better and that patients often feel more comfortable with providers from similar ethnic backgrounds. The bill aims to create more equitable access to academic and career opportunities by allowing students from various ethnic groups to participate in STEP and CSTEP programs based on their group's representation in specific professional fields, with the ultimate goal of addressing systemic underrepresentation and promoting workforce diversity across different sectors.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5542