During a recent meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Higher Education, significant progress was made on several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in New York.

The committee approved Senate Bill 2387, introduced by Senator Felder, which will allow individuals over the age of 65 to enroll in courses at State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) campuses for up to nine credit hours per semester without charge, provided space is available. This initiative aims to promote lifelong learning among seniors and is set to take effect on April 9 following its enactment.

Another notable bill, Senate Bill 3236, sponsored by Senator Cooney, was also reported favorably. This legislation will enable registered pharmacy technicians to work in any pharmacy under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist, thereby expanding employment opportunities in the healthcare sector.

Additionally, the committee discussed Senate Bill 3458, presented by Senator Stavisky, which seeks to phase out certain mandatory fees for graduate students serving as teaching or research assistants starting in 2026. This bill aims to alleviate financial burdens on graduate students, making higher education more accessible.

These legislative efforts reflect a commitment to improving educational access and support for various groups within the community. As these bills move forward, they hold the potential to significantly impact the landscape of higher education in New York.