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 S02314 aims to amend the education law in New York to extend certain educational benefits to active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. Specifically, it allows these individuals, along with residents aged sixty and over, to audit courses at state-operated institutions and community colleges without incurring tuition fees, examinations, or grading. The bill also empowers the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the granting of course credits for successfully completed audited courses by these volunteers, provided they are enrolled as full-time or part-time students.
Impact
The passage of this bill would modify existing education laws to include active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers in the group of individuals eligible for tuition-free auditing of courses. This change is expected to enhance educational opportunities for these volunteers, potentially increasing their skills and knowledge relevant to their service. The bill does not alter existing funding mechanisms for community colleges or state universities, ensuring that state aid remains unaffected.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S02314 appears to be supportive, as it acknowledges the contributions of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers by providing them with educational benefits. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications for course availability and resource allocation at educational institutions, which could lead to discussions in committee or among stakeholders.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the potential impact on course availability for regular students, as the bill allows auditing on a space-available basis. Some may argue that this could limit access for enrolled students, while supporters of the bill contend that it is a necessary recognition of the service provided by volunteers. The balance between providing benefits to volunteers and ensuring access for all students may be a key area of debate.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.