New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A07744

Introduced
4/8/25  

Caption

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

Summary

Bill A07744 seeks to amend the education law in New York to extend certain educational benefits to active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers. Specifically, it allows these individuals, as well as residents aged sixty and over, to audit courses at state-operated institutions and community colleges without the requirement of tuition, examinations, grading, or credit. The bill also empowers the board of trustees of the state university to establish regulations that would permit the granting of course credit for successfully completed audited courses by these volunteers.

Impact

The passage of this bill would modify existing education laws to include active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers as beneficiaries of tuition-free auditing of courses. This change is expected to enhance educational opportunities for these community service members, encouraging their continued involvement in volunteer services while pursuing educational goals. It also aims to ensure that such auditing does not interfere with the enrollment of other qualified students in these institutions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A07744 appears to be supportive, as it acknowledges the contributions of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers to their communities. However, there may be some concerns about the potential impact on course availability for other students, which could be a point of discussion in future committee meetings or legislative sessions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between providing these benefits to volunteers and ensuring that regular students have access to courses. Some legislators or stakeholders might argue that the implementation of this bill could lead to overcrowding in certain courses, while supporters will emphasize the importance of recognizing and supporting the efforts of volunteers in emergency services.

Companion Bills

NY S02314

Same As Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

Previously Filed As

NY A09690

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

NY S00789

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

NY S02314

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

NY A05390

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

NY A00516

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S05837

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S05432

Increases benefits for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY A06410

Increases benefits for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY S09136

Provides annual vehicular access for New York state's active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers and their immediate family at any state park or recreational facility.

NY S08409

Extends the effectiveness of certain sections of law relating to real property tax exemptions for real property owned by volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.