Provides that for the purposes of educational leave, an eligible incarcerated individual shall include an incarcerated individual who is within two years of being an eligible incarcerated individual.
Prohibits funding for SUNY, CUNY or community colleges which, directly or indirectly, permit terrorist organizations on campus; provides that the state university trustees adopt rules and regulations that any student group or student organization that receives funding from the state university of New York that directly or indirectly promotes, encourages, advocates, or permits any terrorist advocacy or activities on campuses, shall be ineligible for funding, including funding from student activity fee proceeds.
Requires at least a ratio of one clinical, non-student mental health staff member per one thousand students on all SUNY and CUNY campuses and for state colleges and universities to update such ratio every five years.
Establishes the rural teacher education loan repayment program in the education department which provides payment for the undergraduate and graduate education loans of teachers in rural school districts who agree to teach in rural areas for at least 5 years.
This bill authorizes Salamanca City School District to create a reserve fund (capped at $5 million) using existing district funds if federal impact aid decreases. The fund would stabilize school tax levies and maintain educational services if federal aid is reduced, directly affecting Salamanca students and taxpayers. Voter approval via a separate ballot question is required before establishing the fund, and withdrawals would be disclosed in annual budget reports. The bill specifies that funds would be drawn from unassigned balances or other existing reserves, not new taxes.
Enables public libraries to access employment preparation education (EPE) funds to provide adult literacy education; sets aside one million dollars to be awarded through a competitive grant process; provides that half of such appropriation shall be set aside for libraries serving a population of one million or more.
Enacts the "go green schools act" to assist school districts in converting to renewable energy sources as a primary source of energy; directs NYSERDA to conduct a study and make recommendations for such purpose.
This bill prohibits colleges and universities from asking about an applicant's prior arrests (that didn't result in conviction) or sealed criminal convictions during the admissions process. It directly affects individuals with criminal records who apply to higher education institutions. After admission, colleges may inquire about criminal history only to provide support services or determine participation in campus activities, but must use an individualized process considering factors like time since conviction and rehabilitation, not deny access outright. Colleges cannot rescind admission offers based on past convictions, and must provide written appeal procedures for any activity restrictions. The law applies broadly to all degree-granting institutions of higher education in the state.
Establishes the New York state Black history preservation commission to ensure the documentation and preservation of Black history in New York state within the state university of New York.
Requires instruction in arts and music education to be incorporated into curriculums for all public school students; requires school districts to ensure that appropriately certified teachers are providing such education; authorizes rules and regulations consistent with such provisions.
