Albany, NY – Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson today announced the enacted 2019-20 state budget includes substantial funding for both public and private colleges that employ thousands and drive the Rochester regional economy.

“Financial barriers should never prevent a student from obtaining higher education. Year after year New York State has fought to make college more affordable and accessible to give every student a fair shot at a degree without forcing them or their families to take on huge amounts of debt,” said Assemblymember Bronson. “This year’s budget funds the programs which draw students to University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology and Roberts Wesleyan, and also changes the funding formula for schools like Monroe Community College to allow for greater long-term financial planning to meet the needs of their students.” Bronson continued.

The enacted 2019-20 state budget includes $35 million in Bundy Aid to independent colleges and universities, as well as $29.6 million for the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) awards; over $13 million for Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) and over $10 million for the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program.

Additionally, the budget establishes a floor level of state support for community colleges to address the impact of unforeseeable fluctuations in student enrollment as well as part-time enrollment on institutions ability to establish long-term financial plans.