Section I.
Please mark your calendars - Feb 24th, 2026
This event is in person, in Albany.
Section II. What is the Ask?
We continue to work together for college students with disabilities to receive adequate services and equity in the college setting and request:
- $13 million in state funding to support Enhancing Supports and Services for Postsecondary Success of Students with Disabilities. Students and advocates have been calling for a full investment up to $15 million in the capacities of higher education institutions to support the access and inclusion of New Yorkers with disabilities in higher education since 2018, and it has been a NYS Regents Priority for seven consecutive years.
- The passage of S3369 (Senate) and A05774 (Assembly) which would expand NYS financial aid options for college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and make aid sources such as TAP accessible for these students.
Section III. Background information
- 11/21/2024 Webinar Recording: Panel Discussion about what you need to know.
- 2025-2026, is the 5th year of funding. Only 2M is supported annually in the governor's budget. Last year there was 4M for a total of $38.38 per student for students with disabilities in higher education for all of the sectors (CUNY, SUNY, Independent, and Proprietary Colleges).
- The funding is decreasing as the numbers of students with disabilities increase. This impacts the workloads that have evolved and intensifies the process for implementing accommodations. The number of students with disabilities is currently is at 104,226 for the fiscal year of 2026. If funding provided is 2 Million dollars only $19.19 per student is available.
- This funding is greatly appreciated, but this limited funding per student supports minimal progress for programs and supports.