Requires that the state university of New York's board of trustees shall adopt a policy requiring all state university of New York, city university of New York, college, and community college campuses that offer membership programs to the general public for the use of fitness and aquatic facilities, to permit disabled veterans to obtain a membership for the use of fitness and aquatic facilities upon the same terms and conditions as apply to the general public, but without payment of any fees or other charges; defines "disabled veteran".
If enacted, S07784 would significantly alter the existing framework for how membership programs operate at university campuses. By eliminating fees for disabled veterans, the bill not only mitigates financial barriers for this group but also underscores the importance of physical health for veterans recovering from service-related disabilities. The legislation positions these campuses as more accessible and inclusive environments for disabled veterans, reinforcing state commitment to support this demographic.
Bill S07784 aims to provide disabled veterans with free access to fitness and aquatic facilities at all campuses of the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY). The bill instructs the SUNY board of trustees to establish a policy allowing these veterans to obtain memberships under the same terms as the general public but without any fees. This initiative seeks to enhance the well-being of disabled veterans by promoting their physical health and social integration through access to sports and fitness facilities.
While there may not be overt significant opposition discussed, potential points of contention could include the financial implications for SUNY and CUNY campuses in enforcing this policy. Concerns may arise about how these universities would manage the costs associated with providing free memberships. Moreover, the bill could spark debates on the adequacy of services provided to veterans compared to other groups, and whether such benefits should extend to other disabled individuals beyond those who are veterans.