Bill > A05860

This bill clarifies the conditions under which employees of educational institutions like the State University of New York (SUNY), City University of New York (CUNY), and public community colleges can qualify for unemployment benefits during periods between academic terms. The bill defines a "contract to perform services" as a non-contingent agreement that provides compensation for an entire academic year, and establishes specific criteria for determining "reasonable assurance" of future employment. To qualify, an employment offer must be written or implied, made by an authorized institution employee, for the same capacity as previous work, and provide at least 90% of the previous year's compensation. The bill also specifies that reasonable assurance cannot be based on contingent factors like course programming, funding, or facility availability, and must be evaluated holistically, considering elements such as funding history, enrollment levels, and the claimant's seniority. Importantly, the bill strictly limits these provisions to professional capacities (instructional, research, or principal administrative roles) and explicitly excludes nonprofessional positions. The legislation aims to provide clearer guidelines for determining unemployment benefits eligibility for educational institution employees during breaks between academic terms.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5860