Establishes the reimbursement for educational achievement and proficiency (REAP) program

1 Co-sponsor

• Terrence P. Murphy

BILL NUMBER:S484A

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to establishing the Reimbursement for educational achievement and proficiency (REAP) program

Purpose

To guarantee access to and reward completion of a community college education in New York State for students that meet specific criteria.

Summary of provisions

Section 1. Adds a new section 679-g in the education law to establish the program. The Higher Education Services corporation would be required to reimburse students for the cost of attending a community college who:

*Graduate from a NYS high school or receive a GED

*Apply for admission at a SUNY or CUNY community college within one year of graduation or receipt of the GED

*Enroll in a SUNY or CUNY community college beginning in the fall of 2015 or thereafter

*File a FAFSA

*Attend community college on a full time basis

*Graduate with a 2.5 GPA

*Graduate within 3 years; and

*File an application with HESC within one year of graduation

Section 2. Provides for an immediate effective date.

Justification

Community colleges are the gateway to higher education for thousands of New Yorkers each year. Completion of these two year programs enable students to enter the workforce with employable skills, earn decent wages and/or pursue further higher education. Therefore, it makes sense to reduce the cost to the students being educated at these community colleges. At a time when higher education is becoming increasingly unaffordable, more students are entering community college full time and the skills sets demanded by employers are changing in way that make community college a more attractive option. This bill will strengthen our community colleges and our higher education system by rewarding successful completion.

Legislative history

2014 S.7793

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

Immediately.