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.
S 523 requires New York school districts to be reimbursed for actual costs incurred when conducting studies mandated by the education department to approve reorganization (such as mergers, consolidations, or annexations). It directly affects school districts undergoing reorganization that are eligible for state aid under existing law. The bill establishes a reimbursement mechanism for these study expenses, contingent on the state making a specific budget appropriation for this purpose. If no appropriation is made by the effective date, the law delays implementation until funds are secured, with formal notifications required to track this process.
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.
Requires the administration of certain vaccines for children in accordance with regulations issued by the commissioner, utilizing generally accepted medical standards and based on recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Physicians, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or other similar nationally or internationally recognized scientific organizations.
Bill S 1424 amends the education law to expand protections against discrimination for students. It prohibits discrimination by school employees or other students on school property or at school functions based on a student's religious attire, clothing, or facial hair. This bill adds these specific protections to existing anti-discrimination provisions covering characteristics like race, religion, and disability. It also clarifies that certain gender-based admissions and disability-related actions permitted under other laws are not prohibited.
Directs the education department and OCFS to prepare posters and pamphlets with information regarding higher education funding opportunities for foster youth.
Bill S 6221 establishes additional state building aid for school districts to help cover specific infrastructure costs associated with transitioning to zero-emission school buses. This aid applies to "incremental zero-emission school bus storage costs," such as facility modifications for wider doors, specialized lifts, and charge management systems. It also covers "incremental customer-owned make-ready costs" for infrastructure needed to install electric vehicle chargers. This financial support is available for approved expenditures through the 2034-2035 school year, provided they are not reimbursed by other state, federal, or electric utility funding sources.
Provides that the commissioner of education may promulgate rules and regulations for a health education curriculum to include menstrual disorders, including but not limited to, endometriosis.
This bill establishes a program to help school districts and eligible public buildings (like housing or hospitals) with structures over 20,000 square feet reduce energy costs through mechanical insulation upgrades. It requires free, qualified energy audits to identify needed insulation work and provides competitive grants covering 50% to 75% of approved insulation costs for HVAC systems, piping, and equipment. Grants are issued on a first-come basis after an approved audit, with the program to be implemented within one year of enactment. The law defines specific requirements for qualified contractors and insulation standards to ensure energy savings.
