Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or volunteer ambulance workers

7 Co-sponsors

• Fredrick J. Akshar II
• John A. DeFrancisco
• Rich Funke
• Patrick M. Gallivan
• Todd Kaminsky
• Michael H. Ranzenhofer
• Susan Serino

BILL NUMBER:S3125

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to extending certain benefits to active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers

Purpose

To allow active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers to audit courses at the State University of New York (SUNY) and at community colleges on a tuition-free basis.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 of the bill amends section 355 of the education law to allow active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers to audit courses at SUNY schools without tuition, examination, grading or credit.

Section 2 of the bill amends section 6303 of the education law to allow active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers to audit courses at community colleges without tuition, examination, grading or credit.

Section 3 of the bill is the effective date.

Justification

Under current law, persons that are 60 or older are permitted to audit courses at SUNY schools and community colleges without tuition, examination, grading or credit. This benefit is available on a space available basis. This legislation simply extends this benefit to New York State residents that are active volunteer firefighters or active volunteer ambulance workers. This bill also authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to develop rules that would allow schools to award credit for such audited courses, if such a school desired to do so.

This legislation will provide a number of benefits to the volunteer fire service. First, it will serve as an incentive for current volunteers to continue their service. This is especially true for those who may be contemplating leaving the volunteer fire service to further their education for career purposes. Second, the bill will serve as an incentive for younger individuals to join their local volunteer fire department or ambulance company. By providing an opportunity for younger individuals to take a course at the local college, this bill will attract individuals who may not otherwise consider joining their local volunteer organizations. Third, this bill will also provide a meaningful higher education opportunity which could lead to pursuit of a degree. Ultimately, this bill will provide for a stronger volunteer fire service to protect our residents and communities.

Legislative history

S.6677/A.8990 (2013-14); Referred to Higher Education

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.