Establishes an automatic application program for state high school students into SUNY and CUNY.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would have significant implications for state laws regarding education and student data privacy. Under S07590, the application process for high school students would shift, requiring the educational department to comply with federal regulations regarding information sharing. Notably, the program would emphasize the importance of student consent, ensuring that personal data is managed prudently, thereby maintaining compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This legislative change is designed to increase college enrollment rates among high school graduates.
Summary
Bill S07590 aims to establish an Automatic Application Program specifically designed for graduating high school students in New York. This program intends to streamline the college application process by automatically applying eligible students to both the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY). The bill outlines the responsibilities of the educational department to create a centralized academic database that will facilitate this automatic application submission, making access to higher education more straightforward for students in the state.
Contention
While the bill has generally garnered support, there are points of contention among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that the automatic application process will help increase college attendance and improve educational outcomes for students who might otherwise face barriers to applying. Critics, however, might raise concerns regarding the quality of applications resulting from an automated process, fearing it could dilute personal expressions in college admissions. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of safeguards to protect student data as more personal information becomes centralized in one database.
Authorizes a fee waiver for applications to SUNY and CUNY if a prospective student, either a high school senior, or a person completing a gap year, submits and completes the FAFSA form.
Establishes the transitional pathway program for students in higher education at SUNY and CUNY schools with autism spectrum disorder to encourage accessibility and inclusivity in higher education for students with autism spectrum disorder; makes related provisions.
Creates the New York state public sector employee loan forgiveness program for graduates of SUNY or CUNY schools employed in a state or local public sector position.
Creates the New York state public sector employee loan forgiveness program for graduates of SUNY or CUNY schools employed in a state or local public sector position.
Requires SUNY and CUNY schools with at least twenty-five percent of its undergraduate students living on campus to establish substance use recovery housing programs which shall include on-site counseling, mentoring, and peer support.
Requires the establishment of a composting program at the state university of New York, the city university of New York and institutions subject to the jurisdiction of SUNY or CUNY.
Requires the establishment of a composting program at the state university of New York, the city university of New York and institutions subject to the jurisdiction of SUNY or CUNY.