ASSEMBLY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
During an economic downturn, balancing the priorities of keeping our public university systems both accessible and affordable while maintaining quality academic programs is an increasingly difficult task. In 2011-12, and in prior fiscal years, the New York State Budget has contained reductions in state spending for higher education. Chapter 260 of 2011 provided additional funding to both public university systems through increases in student tuition along with a commitment for the state to maintain its funding efforts in future years. Adequately funding higher education, even during tough times, is one of the most crucial investments that can be made for the future of New York State as our economy depends on a well-educated and highly skilled workforce to compete in a global economy.
Ensuring that our public university systems remain a competitive and affordable option so that all students have access to a quality college education has always been a priority for the Assembly Higher Education Committee. This hearing will seek testimony on ways to further this goal and assess the needs of our state and city university systems moving forward.
Persons wishing to present pertinent testimony to the Committee at the above hearing should complete and return the enclosed reply form as soon as possible. It is important that the reply form be fully completed and returned so that persons may be notified in the event of emergency postponement or cancellation. Fifteen copies of any prepared testimony should be submitted at the hearing registration desk. The Committee would appreciate advance receipt of prepared statements. In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Legislature, in accordance with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Legislative facilities and activities.
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