Bill > S06405

This bill allows New York state employees, including those working for state agencies, counties, public authorities, school districts, and other participating employers in state retirement systems, to use their accrued vacation time to make payments toward student loans. The bill defines "student loans" as loans used to finance postsecondary education expenses, specifically including federal student loans from programs like the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Employees covered by collective bargaining agreements are initially exempt from this provision, but their employee organizations can opt in to the program through collective bargaining negotiations. The bill emphasizes that implementing this new benefit should not interfere with existing collective bargaining rights and relationships. Importantly, the bill requires the president of the civil service commission to create and implement the necessary rules and regulations to support this new policy. The law will take effect 180 days after it is enacted, giving state agencies time to prepare for its implementation and develop the required administrative procedures.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6405