BILL NUMBER: S4559

SPONSOR: STAVISKY
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring the appoint-
ment of a Title VI coordinator at every college and university in the
state

 
PURPOSE:

To ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
promoting equal access to education and services for all students,
regardless of race, color, or national origin, by requiring the appoint-
ment of a dedicated Title VI Coordinator at every college and university
within the state.

 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

Section one amends the Education Law by adding a new section 6436-a,
titled "Title VI Coordinator." Under this provision, the trustees or
governing boards of all colleges and universities chartered by the
              

regents or incorporated by special act of the legislature, and which
maintain a campus in the state, will be required to appoint a Title VI
Coordinator. This coordinator will be responsible for ensuring compli-
ance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Their duties will
include overseeing adherence to Title VI laws and regulations, promoting
equal access to and participation in the institution's programs and
activities, providing training and resources on Title VI compliance,
documenting and investigating complaints, maintaining records and
reports, and carrying out any other relevant responsibilities as deter-
mined by the college or university.

Section two sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the
basis of race, color, and national origin for any entities or programs
receiving federal funding. This bill is necessary to ensure that
colleges and universities across the state uphold the fundamental civil
rights of students on the basis of these protected categories, ensuring
equal access to educational programs and activities free from discrimi-
nation.

The creation of a Title VI Coordinator at each institution would provide
a centralized point of contact for compliance, as well as improving the
institution's ability to respond effectively to complaints and promote a
more inclusive learning environment. Similar efforts have been effective
for other marginalized communities, such as the implementation of Title
IX coordinators to protect students against sex and gender-based
discrimination. When students face discrimination and bias on the basis
of their protected identities, many colleges and universities have
failed to provide clear and adequate reporting mechanisms. This bill
would provide an opportunity for corrective action to be taken, improv-
ing the lives of college students who often do not know where to turn
when facing instances of discrimination. It would help strengthen
protections for students and support efforts to provide equitable educa-
tional opportunities for all.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New

 
FISCAL IMPACT ON THE STATE:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect one hundred and eighty days after it shall
become law.