New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08973

Introduced
8/13/25  

Caption

Requires public school students to take three semester-long financial literacy courses between sixth and twelfth grades.

Impact

If passed, the legislation would significantly influence the state's educational framework by integrating financial literacy into the core curriculum for middle and high school students. This initiative responds to growing concerns regarding the financial illiteracy among young adults, which can lead to poor financial decisions later in life. By educating students on pertinent financial topics early, the state hopes to develop a more financially literate population, potentially reducing issues related to debt and financial mismanagement in the future.

Summary

Bill A08973 introduces a mandate in New York, requiring public school students to complete three semester-long courses on financial literacy between grades six and twelve. The aim is to equip students with essential knowledge and skills to navigate personal finance effectively, enhancing their preparedness for real-world financial responsibilities. Topics covered in these courses will comprise personal finance basics, investment strategies, understanding credit, taxation systems, and various types of insurance, thereby aiming to foster financial competence among students.

Contention

While proponents of the bill champion the idea of requiring financial literacy in schools, debates may arise over curriculum design and resource allocations. Some educators and policymakers may express concerns regarding the implementation of additional requirements on school districts already facing budgetary constraints. Additionally, discussions may arise around the specifics of the curriculum—such as who decides the content and how it is assessed—as well as potential disparities in how effectively different districts can deliver these courses based on their resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A02298

Requires high schools in grades nine through twelve to provide a course in financial literacy; requires students to complete such course as a condition of graduation.

NY S04860

Requires high schools in grades nine through twelve to provide a course in financial literacy; requires students to complete such course as a condition of graduation.

NY S09378

Requires the commissioner of education to develop and adopt instruction in financial and insurance literacy for students in grades nine through twelve.

NY S00918

Requires all public and private schools to provide financial literacy education to pupils in grade eleven; directs that certain topics be covered in such educational program.

NY A02928

Requires all public and private schools to provide financial literacy education to pupils in grade eleven; directs that certain topics be covered in such educational program.

NY A03862

Relates to the establishment of various programs for students in pre-kindergarten through third grade including programs for literacy, career readiness and financial literacy.

NY A06217

Establishes a half-credit course in financial education delivered by means of a comprehensive financial literacy program for all pupils in grades nine, ten, eleven or twelve.

NY S09644

Establishes a half-credit course in financial education delivered by means of a comprehensive financial literacy program for all pupils in grades nine, ten, eleven or twelve.

NY S01810

Requires instruction in financial management for all students in grades four through eight.

NY A02937

Requires instruction in financial management for all students in grades four through eight.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.