Assemblyman Chris Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) is a co-sponsor of legislation providing SUNY and CUNY scholarships to the children of military men and women who have died as a result of carrying out their official duties (A.2991). The bill would ensure ‘Gold Star’ kids would have the opportunity to attend college with their tuition and room and board taken care of by the residents of New York. The legislation, however, was shot down by the Assembly Majority in the Committee on Higher Education.

“Many of us cannot begin to understand the sacrifices made by the children of our enlisted men and women. Some sacrifice even further when their military mom or dad dies while serving our country to keep us safe,” said Friend. “These ‘Gold Star’ children have given so much to us, now we have the opportunity to give back to them by helping them secure a brighter future with a college education. It is shameful that the Assembly Majority failed to prioritize these children over illegal immigrants and criminals who the Assembly Majority are more than happy to give free college to with public funds.”

The Assembly Majority refused to allow the legislation out of committee, which means the bill will not be voted on this year on the Assembly floor.