Bars a person who is convicted of a hate crime from attending any SUNY or CUNY institution; provides for the expulsion of a student who is convicted of hate crimes; provides for reinstatement of such student if the conviction is subsequently overturned.
Summary
Bill S00025 seeks to amend New York's education law by prohibiting individuals convicted of hate crimes from attending any state public institution of higher education, including those within the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) systems. Upon conviction, a student currently enrolled at such institutions would be expelled immediately. The bill also includes a provision for reinstatement if the conviction is later overturned on appeal, allowing the individual to return to their previous academic standing.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the admissions landscape for public higher education institutions in New York by instituting a blanket ban on individuals with hate crime convictions. This could lead to an increase in administrative responsibilities for colleges and universities to monitor student conduct and criminal records. Additionally, it may raise questions regarding due process and the treatment of students who have served their sentences or had their convictions overturned.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S00025 appears to be mixed, with supporters arguing that it is necessary to maintain a safe and inclusive educational environment, while critics raise concerns about the potential for disproportionate impacts on marginalized communities and the implications for civil rights. The lack of voting history and committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the full spectrum of opinions.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring campus safety and upholding the rights of individuals who have served their sentences. Advocates for the bill emphasize the need to protect students from hate-driven behavior, while opponents argue that the bill may unfairly penalize individuals who have been rehabilitated or whose convictions are later overturned. The debate may also touch on broader issues of criminal justice reform and educational access.
Increases the penalty for multiple convictions of torturing, killing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal to a felony, if convicted within five years from the date of a prior conviction.
Authorizing the director of alcoholic beverage control to issue certain licenses to persons convicted of certain felonies if such conviction is more than 10 years old.
Authorizing the director of alcoholic beverage control to issue licenses for the sale of alcoholic liquor to persons convicted of a felony if such conviction is more than 10 years old.