Senate Passes Senator Farley's Legislation To Help Seniors And Retirees

The New York State Senate today passed legislation to help senior citizens and retirees that would allow senior citizens to take state university courses for credit without tuition and helps protect the health insurance coverage of retired school district employees.

The Senate passed a bill (S.2481), sponsored by Senator Hugh Farley (R-C, Schenectady), that would allow senior citizens to take state university courses for credit without tuition on a space-available basis. Under current law, seniors are allowed to audit courses at state universities, but do not receive credit. This bill will provide seniors with the opportunity of full participation in their course work.

"By keeping their minds active, seniors can enjoy more fulfilling lives," said Senator Farley. "As a college professor myself, I know that all students would benefit from the perspectives which mature students can bring to the classroom."

Senator Farley also sponsored legislation (S.6379) passed by the Senate today that would prohibit school districts from reducing the level of health insurance coverage, or their contribution toward its costs, for retirees unless the reduction applies equally to active employees. This legislation would further protect retirees by making them a part of the collective bargaining process.

"The high cost of health insurance is a critical issue for all of us, but especially for retirees facing significant health care needs on a limited income," said Senator Farley. "This bill continues to protect retired teachers, without imposing any new costs on school districts."

The bills were sent to the Assembly.