New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00256

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Prohibits the use of state aid by colleges and universities to fund or provide membership in academic institutions that are boycotting a country or higher education institutions of a country.

Summary

Bill A00256 seeks to prohibit New York state colleges and universities from using state aid to support academic entities that engage in boycotts against countries or higher education institutions located in those countries. The legislation emphasizes the importance of providing students with access to a global education and aims to ensure that state funds are not used to support actions that could limit educational opportunities. The bill outlines specific definitions for terms such as 'academic entity' and 'host country' and establishes conditions under which colleges may lose eligibility for state aid if they violate these provisions.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend existing laws regarding the use of state aid by colleges and universities in New York. It would specifically restrict funding for academic entities that have publicly boycotted certain countries or their institutions, thereby potentially influencing the financial operations of affected colleges. The bill also includes exceptions for colleges located in countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism, those involved in labor disputes, or those protesting unlawful discriminatory practices, which may create a nuanced legal landscape for compliance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00256 appears to be mixed, with proponents arguing that it protects the integrity of educational funding and promotes international cooperation, while opponents may view it as an infringement on academic freedom and free speech. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the full extent of support or opposition among legislators and stakeholders.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about academic freedom and the potential chilling effect on institutions that wish to engage in boycotts for social justice or political reasons. Critics may argue that the bill could limit the ability of colleges to respond to global issues and injustices, while supporters contend that it is necessary to maintain a focus on educational opportunities without political interference. The debate may particularly involve academic institutions, faculty members, and advocacy groups.

Companion Bills

NY S10065

Same As Prohibits the use of state aid by colleges and universities to fund or provide membership in academic institutions that are boycotting a country or higher education institutions of a country.

Previously Filed As

NY S10065

Prohibits the use of state aid by colleges and universities to fund or provide membership in academic institutions that are boycotting a country or higher education institutions of a country.

NY A00716

Prohibits the use of state aid by colleges and universities to fund or provide membership in academic institutions that are boycotting a country or higher education institutions of a country.

NY SB1247

Higher educational institutions, public; grants with foreign countries of concern prohibited, etc.

NY HB2186

Higher educational institutions, public; grants with foreign countries of concern prohibited, etc.

NY A11415

Provides that certain institutions of higher education shall meet certain standards that do not infringe upon academic freedom

NY HB2523

Authorizing technical colleges and community colleges to affiliate with Kansas universities or colleges, authorizing state educational institutions to affiliate with accredited independent institutions and providing procedures for such affiliations.

NY HB1385

Higher educational institutions, public; membership of governing boards.

NY SB494

Higher educational institutions, public; membership of governing boards.

NY SB532

Higher Education Institutions - Over-the-Counter Contraception - Access and Reporting

NY HB1069

Higher educational institutions, certain; membership of boards of visitors.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.