Bill > A06754

This bill allows New York state employees, including those working for state agencies, counties, community colleges, public authorities, and school districts, to use their accrued vacation time to make payments on student loans. The bill defines "student loans" as loans used to finance postsecondary education expenses, and specifically includes federal student loans from programs like the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Importantly, the bill does not automatically apply to employees covered by existing collective bargaining agreements; instead, labor unions can choose to opt in to the provision or negotiate alternative benefits. The bill also includes protections to ensure that implementing this new provision does not undermine existing collective bargaining rights. Employees would be able to use their accrued vacation time directly towards student loan payments, providing a potential financial relief mechanism for state workers with educational debt. The president of the civil service commission is required to develop and implement the necessary rules and regulations to execute this new provision. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, allowing time for administrative preparation and implementation.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6754