BILL NUMBER: S1024
SPONSOR: JACKSON
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to tuition rates for
certain students who are not residents of the state but who have resided
in the state for a certain period of time
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To allow undocumented students who have resided in the state for at
least one year to qualify for in-state tuition rates at SUNY and CUNY
colleges
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1 amends subparagraph 8 of paragraph h of subdivision 2 of
section 355 of the education law to remove education requirements to
qualify for instate tuition rates for students who are not residents of
the state but who have resided in the state for at least one year.
Section 2 amends subdivision 5 of section 6301 of the education law
amends the definition of resident in the education law.
Section 3 sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Offering undocumented students in-state tuition rates at public colleges
in New York State would have numerous benefits such as promoting access
to higher education, helping to alleviate financial burdens, strengthen-
ing New York's states workforce and economy, and fostering social inte-
gration and a sense of belonging.
Current law places onerous additional requirements on undocumented
students to qualify for in-state tuition rates. Eliminating these unnec-
essary extra requirements would help alleviate financial burden on
undocumented students and their families, allowing them to better inte-
grate into our state and pursue better futures. Many undocumented
students face economic challenges and may struggle to afford out-of-
state tuition fees. By offering, then the same rates as residents,
institutions make education more affordable and enable these students to
purse their academic aspirations without being hindered by financial
constraints.
Furthermore, offering in-state tuition rates to undocumented students
who are residing in New York can yield long-term economic benefits.
These students often bring valuable skills, talents, and diversity to
the local workforce. By supporting their education, colleges and univer-
sities help cultivate a well-educated and diverse talent pool that can
contribute to economic growth and innovation in the community. Undocu-
mented students who receive higher education are more likely to secure
stable employment and higher wages, leading to increased tax revenues
and economic development in the long run.
Finally, providing affordable education through in-state tuition rates
would promote access to higher education and equal opportunities for all
students, increasing enrollment and creating a more inclusive and
diverse learning environment, where students from different backgrounds
can contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. This fosters
social integration and promotes a sense of belonging within the local
community.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2024 - S. 9094 - REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION/ A. 8403-A - amended and
recommitted to higher education
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S1024: 355 education law, 355(2) education law