BILL NUMBER: S4559B
SPONSOR: STAVISKY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring the appoint-
ment of a Title VI coordinator at every college and university in the
state
 
PURPOSE:
To ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
promoting equal access to education and services for all students,
regardless of race, color, or national origin, by requiring the appoint-
ment of a dedicated Title VI Coordinator at every college and university
within the state.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section one amends the Education Law by adding a new section 6436-a,
titled "Title VI Coordinator." Under this provision, the trustees or
governing boards of all colleges and universities chartered by the
regents or incorporated by special act of the legislature, and which
maintain a campus in the state, will be required to appoint a Title VI
Coordinator.
Section two sets forth the responsibilities ensuring compliance with
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Their duties will include
overseeing adherence to Title VI laws and regulations, promoting equal
access to and participation in the institution's programs and activ-
ities, providing training and resources on Title VI compliance, docu-
menting and investigating complaints, maintaining records and reports,
and carrying out any other relevant responsibilities as determined by
the college or university.
Section three develops training to promote equal access and partic-
ipation developed by the Division of Human Rights and the institutions
of public and private higher education located in the State, delivered
annually to all students and employees beginning the first full academic
year after it takes effect.
Section four sets forth the notification policies and procedures for
reporting discrimination and harassment.
Section five allows for a designee or designees to assist in carrying
out the functions of the Title VI coordinator.
Section six develops training for the designee or designees of their
duties and responsibilities of Title VI.
Section seven sets forth the responsibility of the Title VI coordinator
to keep appropriate recordkeeping related to any reports and complaints
of discrimination and harassment applicable to state and federal law,
including all records related to assessments of reports, records docu-
menting action taken, and any records of training attendance and materi-
als.
Section eight sets forth other duties the Title VI coordinator may
perform that are relevant to the duties established by the institution.
Sub Section Two sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the
basis of race, color, and national origin for any entities or programs
receiving federal funding. This bill is necessary to ensure that
colleges and universities across the state uphold the fundamental civil
rights of students on the basis of these protected categories, ensuring
equal access to educational programs and activities free from discrimi-
nation.
The creation of a Title VI Coordinator at each institution would provide
a centralized point of contact for compliance, as well as improving the
institution's ability to respond effectively to complaints and promote a
more inclusive learning environment. Similar efforts have been effective
for other marginalized communities, such as the implementation of Title
IX coordinators to protect students against sex and gender-based
discrimination. When students face discrimination and bias on the basis
of their protected identities, many colleges and universities have
failed to provide clear and adequate reporting mechanisms. This bill
would provide an opportunity for corrective action to be taken, improv-
ing the lives of college students who often do not know where to turn
when facing instances of discrimination. It would help strengthen
protections for students and support efforts to provide equitable educa-
tional opportunities for all.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New
 
FISCAL IMPACT ON THE STATE:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect one year it shall become law.