New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01234

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Relates to the membership of the board of trustees of the state university of New York; reduces the number of trustees appointed by the governor from fifteen to ten; adds one trustee appointment by the speaker of the assembly, one by the temporary president of the senate, one by a majority vote of SUNY and CUNY staff, and two by a majority vote of SUNY alumni.

Summary

Bill S01234 proposes amendments to the education law concerning the composition of the board of trustees for the State University of New York (SUNY). The bill reduces the number of trustees appointed by the governor from fifteen to ten and introduces additional appointments: one by the speaker of the assembly, one by the temporary president of the senate, one elected by staff members of SUNY and the City University of New York (CUNY), and two elected by SUNY alumni. This change aims to diversify the representation on the board and ensure that various stakeholders have a voice in governance.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the governance structure of SUNY by reducing the governor's influence over the board through a decrease in appointed trustees. The introduction of staff and alumni representatives is expected to enhance accountability and responsiveness to the needs of students and faculty. This change may also lead to revisions in related statutes governing university governance and trustee responsibilities, ensuring compliance with the new composition.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S01234 appears to be mixed, with some support for increasing representation and inclusivity within the board. However, there are concerns among certain legislators about the reduction of gubernatorial appointments, which some believe could diminish the executive's oversight capabilities over the university system. The lack of voting history and committee discussions makes it difficult to gauge the full extent of support or opposition.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance of power between the governor's office and the newly proposed appointments. Supporters argue that the bill enhances democratic representation and accountability, while opponents express concern that reducing the governor's appointments could lead to a less cohesive governance structure. The debate centers on whether the changes will truly benefit the university system or complicate its governance.

Companion Bills

NY A10484

Same As Relates to the membership of the board of trustees of the state university of New York

Previously Filed As

NY A10484

Relates to the membership of the board of trustees of the state university of New York; reduces the number of trustees appointed by the governor from fifteen to ten; adds one trustee appointment by the speaker of the assembly, one by the temporary president of the senate, one by a majority vote of SUNY and CUNY staff, and two by a majority vote of SUNY alumni.

NY S01255

Relates to the membership of the board of trustees of the state university of New York; reduces the number of trustees appointed by the governor from fifteen to ten; adds one trustee appointment by the speaker of the assembly, one by the temporary president of the senate, one by a majority vote of SUNY and CUNY staff, and two by a majority vote of SUNY alumni.

NY S09218

Adds members to the board of trustees of the state university of New York who represent the interests of community colleges as full voting members of the board of trustees; provides that the local legislative body or board of the county in which a community college is located may appoint a trustee in the event that the governor fails to appoint such trustee within 180 days of a vacancy on a board of trustees of a community college.

NY A10204

Adds members to the board of trustees of the state university of New York who represent the interests of community colleges as full voting members of the board of trustees; provides that the local legislative body or board of the county in which a community college is located may appoint a trustee in the event that the governor fails to appoint such trustee within 180 days of a vacancy on a board of trustees of a community college.

NY S05695

Provides the temporary president of the senate and the speaker of the assembly the ability to appoint four members each of the state university of New York's board of trustees; reduces the members of such board the governor appoints to seven.

NY A07732

Provides the temporary president of the senate and the speaker of the assembly the ability to appoint four members each of the state university of New York's board of trustees; reduces the members of such board the governor appoints to seven.

NY SJR0092

A RESOLUTION to confirm the appointment of John Compton to the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee.

NY HJR0169

A RESOLUTION to confirm the appointment of John Compton to the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee.

NY S01598

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

NY A01534

Provides for the filling of vacancies in the office of lieutenant-governor by appointment of the governor subject to confirmation by majority vote in the senate and majority vote in the assembly.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.