New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10288

Introduced
2/20/26  

Caption

Authorizes SUNY and CUNY to provide emergency aid grants to certain students

Impact

The bill stipulates that the state will reimburse half of the emergency aid grants disbursed by the colleges, with a maximum of $1,250 per student and $62,500 per institution for receiving matching funds. This initiative is designed to relieve some financial stress from students, allowing them to remain enrolled and focused on their studies without the fear of losing access to education due to sudden financial needs. It represents a proactive approach to support student retention and success within higher education institutions in New York.

Summary

A10288 is a bill proposed in the New York State Assembly that seeks to amend the education law by establishing an emergency aid grant program. This program aims to provide financial assistance to undergraduate students attending community colleges and senior colleges who are facing unexpected or unforeseen financial difficulties. Eligible expenses for these grants include essentials such as food, clothing, housing, course materials, technology, transportation, medical expenses, and childcare. Notably, the grants cannot be used to cover tuition or fees, nor can they be applied towards the repayment of student loans.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to assist needy students, points of contention may arise concerning how the program will be funded and administered. Concerns may include the effectiveness of implementing these aid programs and ensuring transparency in the allocation of funds. Additionally, there may be discussions around the eligibility criteria for the grants and the capacity of community colleges to manage these funds alongside their existing financial aid offerings, potentially signaling broader issues regarding funding for higher education in the state.

Companion Bills

NY S09044

Same As Authorizes SUNY and CUNY to provide emergency aid grants to certain students; provides that the state shall reimburse half of all such grants provided; requires the higher education services corporation to provide an annual report on such programs.

Previously Filed As

NY S09044

Authorizes SUNY and CUNY to provide emergency aid grants to certain students; provides that the state shall reimburse half of all such grants provided; requires the higher education services corporation to provide an annual report on such programs.

NY S07590

Establishes an automatic application program for state high school students into SUNY and CUNY.

NY S03139

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.

NY S08165

Requires at least a ratio of one clinical, non-student mental health staff member per one thousand students on all SUNY and CUNY campuses and for state colleges and universities to update such ratio every five years.

NY A08704

Expands the New York opportunity promise scholarship to include all SUNY AND CUNY approved programs which award certain associate's degrees.

NY S08356

Expands the New York opportunity promise scholarship to include all SUNY AND CUNY approved programs which award certain associate's degrees.

NY S09873

Requires SUNY and CUNY trustees to refrain from investing in and subsequently divest from stocks, debt or other securities of certain publicly traded fossil fuel companies.

NY A09540

Establishes the transitional pathway program for students in higher education at SUNY and CUNY schools with autism spectrum disorder to encourage accessibility and inclusivity in higher education for students with autism spectrum disorder; makes related provisions.

NY A09402

Provides a waiver from SUNY application fees for veterans.

NY A07692

Authorizes certain nursing students to administer certain vaccines pursuant to patient specific orders or non-patient specific orders; authorizes physicians and certified nurse practitioners to prescribe and order a patient specific order or non-patient specific order to a nursing student to administer certain vaccines.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.