Establishes a statewide program to provide free SUNY, CUNY, and community college tuition to active volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical services providers, and volunteer auxiliary police officers.
Summary
Bill A05863 proposes to amend the education law in New York to establish a program that provides free tuition and fees for active volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical services providers, and volunteer auxiliary police officers attending state-operated institutions, including SUNY, CUNY, and community colleges. The bill outlines eligibility criteria, including proof of membership in good standing and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5. It also specifies that the program covers only one undergraduate degree and that students are responsible for all other costs associated with their education.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would create a new tuition assistance program specifically for active volunteers in emergency services, thereby expanding access to higher education for these individuals. It would amend existing education laws to incorporate this new program and establish guidelines for eligibility and administration. The bill could potentially increase enrollment in state colleges among volunteer emergency responders, while also imposing requirements for maintaining good standing and academic performance.
Sentiment
The sentiment around Bill A05863 appears to be generally positive, with support for recognizing the contributions of volunteer emergency responders through educational benefits. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for the state and the feasibility of administering the program effectively, given the requirements placed on students.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the financial burden on the state to fund this program and the implications of converting unpaid tuition into student loans if eligibility requirements are not met. Some stakeholders might argue that while the intent is commendable, the execution and long-term sustainability of such a program could be problematic. Additionally, there may be debates about whether the benefits should extend to other types of community service or volunteer work.
Same As
Establishes a statewide program to provide free SUNY, CUNY, and community college tuition to active volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical services providers, and volunteer auxiliary police officers.
Establishes a statewide program to provide free SUNY, CUNY, and community college tuition to active volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical services providers, and volunteer auxiliary police officers.
Expands volunteerism by making use of the databases of statewide aging organizations; institutes volunteer certificate programs which train volunteers and individuals in programs to use the volunteers.
Provides tax credit to certain volunteer firefighters, volunteer ambulance workers, volunteer reserve forces officers, auxiliary police officers and volunteer emergency medical personnel under certain circumstances.
Creates a volunteer firefighter scholarship program and a volunteer firefighter scholarship fund; rewards volunteer firefighters who respond to twenty-five percent of emergency calls for eight years with a student loan award equal to four times the SUNY tuition rate; makes an appropriation therefor.