Governor Hochul Launches Efforts to Help New York Students Access Financial Aid

Governor Hochul Issues a Proclamation Designating April as Financial Aid Awareness Month to Highlight Financial Aid Opportunities for New York Students and the Importance of Completing the FAFSA

Announces Petrie Foundation Has Awarded CUNY $1 Million to Launch New CUNY Financial Aid Support Team to Help 100,000 New York City Students Access Available Aid

Launches 2024 New York State STEM Incentive Program to Support SUNY or CUNY Students Pursuing a STEM Degree; Application Opens April 3

Initiatives Follow Governor Hochul’s 2024 State of the State Announcement to Make FAFSA Completion Universal in New York 

Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation declaring April 2024 as Financial Aid Awareness Month in New York State to help inform students and families of the importance of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and the many financial aid options available to them. Governor Hochul also announced that the Petrie Foundation has awarded the City University of New York $1 million to launch CUNY Financial Aid Support Team (FAST) to help 100,000 students complete the FAFSA. The program will run through September 2024. Additionally, Governor Hochul is launching the 2024 New York STEM incentive program on April 3, which will offer tuition awards to New York State students at State University of New York or City University of New York campuses pursuing a degree in an approved Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics field of study. Applicants must also agree to live and work in New York State for five years after graduation.

"For New Yorkers who want to pursue higher education, financial aid is a critical tool that can help transform their dreams into a reality," Governor Hochul said. "Far too often, students and families miss out on the full scope of financial aid opportunities available to them, causing many to miss out on this critical support. We’re bridging the information gap and providing students with the resources they need to complete their FAFSA application and unlock financial aid opportunities that can support their higher education journey.”

To kick off Financial Aid Awareness Month, Governor Hochul is announcing several initiatives in New York State to help students pursue a higher education degree. The Governor’s efforts include:

• Encouraging New York State high school seniors to complete their FAFSA application and take full advantage of financial aid programs by sending letters to students across the state highlighting the resources available to them.
• Announcing the Petrie Foundation has awarded CUNY $1 million to launch FAST, a new FAFSA completion program in partnership with New York City Public Schools and other institutional partners to target 100,000 at-risk students through September 2024.
• Launching the 2024 New York State STEM Incentive Program application on April 3 to support New York State students pursuing a STEM degree at any SUNY or CUNY campus. Applicants must also agree to live and work in New York State for five years after graduation.
• Highlighting events across New York State to help students and families navigate the financial aid process. Full list of events available here.

Since taking office, Governor Hochul has remained committed to expanded access to financial aid, including announcing a 2024 State of the State initiative to make FAFSA completion universal in New York State. Recent data from the National College Attainment Network revealing that over $225 million in Federal Pell Grant funding went unclaimed in New York State in 2023. The FAFSA is the first step in obtaining federal aid, including the federal Pell Grant, work-study, and low-cost loan programs, as well as institutional-based aid awarded by many colleges and universities. Students, parents and counselors can access more information on the FAFSA, as well as a number of other resources at FAFSA Ready.

During the month of April, Governor Hochul announced that the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), SUNY, CUNY and academic and community organizations in New York will host multiple events to help students and their families navigate the financial aid processes and complete the FAFSA and TAP applications. Events include information sessions on common errors students make when filling out financial aid applications, virtual drop in opportunities to connect with HESC experts, and discussions about scholarship opportunities for students. A full schedule of events can be found here.

In October 2023, SUNY launched the FAFSA Completion Corps to help prospective students complete the new federal application for college financial aid. SUNY received a nearly $300,000 grant from AmeriCorps to launch the initiative, which began with 48 students across six SUNY campuses. The positions are funded through federal work-study or other financial resources. Additionally, at the end of the AmeriCorps service term, students will receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which may be used to repay qualified loans and to pay current educational expenses at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs.

The FAFSA links directly to the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application, so both can be completed at the same time. Students who do not qualify to complete the FAFSA are encouraged to complete the New York State Dream Act application to determine eligibility to apply for NYS financial aid.

NYCHCC and Ponce Bank Present GETTING YOUR FINANCIAL HOUSE IN ORDER: Protecting Your Legacy

 

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez - REMINDER: IRS Direct File Pilot Webinar This Thursday

 

IRS Direct File Demo Webinar 

Thursday, April 4th at 6:00 PM

The Office of Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez is hosting a webinar this Thursday, April 4th at 6:00 PM to demonstrate the IRS's new Direct File tool– a pilot program that allows people with simple tax needs to electronically file federal tax returns for free, directly through the IRS. 

Register for the webinar

 

The webinar will be followed by a short Q&A section. To submit questions ahead of time, you may send them to aoc.townhall@mail.house.gov, or call our office at 718-662-5970.  

The office also has a resource page related to all things regarding tax responsibilities, which can be found here: https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/services/tax-resources.

Questions related to casework will not be answered on the webinar. If you have any casework related inquiries, please visit our website at https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov, or call our office at 718-662-5970 if you are a constituent.

FORWARDING: NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLACES NEW YORK CITY UNDER A TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER WEDNESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY

 

The New York City Emergency Management Department (NYCEM) today issued a Travel Advisory for Wednesday, April 3, to Thursday, April 4 for inclement weather forecasted for the city, including an additional 2 to 3 inches of rain expected between now and Thursday, becoming locally heavy at times, mainly Wednesday afternoon to Wednesday evening, causing minor flooding of poor drainage and low-lying areas. Flash flooding is not currently forecast, but localized areas of flash flooding cannot be ruled out. There is also expected to be minor coastal flooding and high winds. New Yorkers are urged to remain updated with real-time verified emergency weather alerts through Notify NYC (nyc.gov/notify) and to expect travel delays and disruptions.

The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Warning for Queens South from 3AM to 7AM Wednesday, April 3 and Queens North and the Bronx from 4PM Wednesday, April 3 until 10AM Thursday, April 4 for inundation of 1.5-2.5ft above ground level. The NWS also issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Staten Island from 2PM Wednesday, April 3 until to 7AM Thursday, April 4. A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for Queens South between 2-7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 3, for inundation of 1 foot above ground level and for 3-7 AM on Thursday, April 4 for inundation of 2 feet above ground level.

The National Weather Service has also issued a High Wind Watch citywide from 11:00 AM on Wednesday until 5:00 AM Thursday for 25-35 mph winds and gusts of up to 60 mph possible. New Yorkers are urged to exercise caution when walking, biking, or driving and secure any loose objects from their properties. NWS alerts, advisories, and warnings, and statements are subject to change. For the latest visit weather.gov/nyc. The MTA has prohibited empty tractor-trailers and tandem trailers on all MTA bridges beginning 10AM on Wednesday due to expected high winds.

“As New York City braces for inclement weather, with additional rainfall, minor coastal flooding, and high winds, I urge all New Yorkers to prioritize their safety and to stay ahead of the weather by staying updated through Notify NYC, our city's most reliable source for real-time, verified emergency alerts,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Expect travel delays and disruptions tomorrow, and if you need to travel, try to use public transportation and budget additional time to get to your destination. Our city's emergency teams are mobilized and ready to address any impacts this weather may bring. Let's all do our part stay informed and prepared.”

“NYC Emergency Management has activated the City's Flash Flood Emergency Plan and is closely coordinating with the National Weather Service and our partner agencies across city, state, and federal levels in response to the expected weather conditions, including rainfall, coastal flooding, and strong winds,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “New Yorkers can stay informed with Notify NYC. Now is the time to take a moment to check on neighbors, especially those who are most vulnerable, for any needs they may have now and throughout the week.”

NYCEM is collaborating with the National Weather Service and monitoring the latest forecasts. To ensure real-time awareness and a coordinated response, NYCEM is organizing specialized interagency briefings to keep essential stakeholders well-informed of emerging risks, and reinforcing its readiness for scaled-up emergency responses should conditions warrant. Critical assets and specialized units are on standby prepared for activation as conditions necessitate. Roads, parking lots, and properties in low-lying areas near the shoreline could potentially experience minor flooding. 

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers:

• Communication and Information: Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Register at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.
• Gather Supplies: Every household member should have a Go Bag packed with essential items, such as bottled water, non-perishable food, and basic medical supplies.
• Tidal Awareness and Coastal Barriers: Monitor tide tables and storm surge forecasts. Know when high tides are expected in your vicinity and be prepared to adjust your plans. Where feasible, deploy sandbags or other deployables suitable for a residence to reduce the risk of tidal water intrusion.
• Watercraft and Boat Security: If you own boats or watercraft, secure or relocate them immediately. Fluctuating tides can not only carry them away but loose watercraft can cause additional damage.
• Storm Drains and Local Warnings: Regularly check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves.
• Beach Closures and Coastal Roads: Remain updated on any beach closures, as flooding can swiftly make these areas hazardous. Beaches are closed to swimming. Plan alternative travel routes to avoid low-lying coastal roads that may be susceptible to flooding.
• Home Safety and Utility Measures: Ensure your home's sump pumps are operational and familiarize yourself with how to safely shut off utilities like gas, water, and electricity. If you reside in a basement or below-grade apartment, be particularly vigilant, as these areas are more susceptible to flooding. Follow City guidance for additional actions specific to below-grade dwellings. Subscribe to Notify NYC’s Basement Apartment Dweller subgroup for key alerts.
• Document & Insurance Review: Secure essential documents in waterproof containers and maintain digital backups. Review your insurance to ensure you have specialized flood coverage, as standard policies often don't cover flood and wind damage. Consider enrolling in the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more at www.floodsmart.gov.
• Prepare for Outages: To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions, and assist them in their preparations.
• Pet Safety: Make provisions for your pets' safety, including the need to leave your home and to take your pet with you.
• Plan for Special Needs & Check on Your Neighbors: Make it a point to check on neighbors who are older adults or who may require special assistance. If you have a disability or specific access and functional needs, make sure your emergency plan accounts for how these factors could impact your ability to respond quickly and communicate effectively during a crisis. Seek assistance from your family or service providers as needed.
• Avoidance and Caution: Do not venture into flooded areas. These zones may be contaminated or electrically charged. Take preemptive action by assembling a Go Bag with essentials like food, water, and first-aid supplies.
• Documentation: When it's safe, contribute to our collective flood risk understanding by capturing and submitting photos via the MyCoast portal (https://mycoast.org/ny) or the MyCoast app. Don't forget to also file flood reports through 311.
• Real-Time Awareness: Stay updated on changing flood conditions by monitoring real-time flood depth via the FloodNet website (https://www.floodnet.nyc/).

NYCEM will continue to provide New Yorkers with the most current information and guidelines as conditions develop.

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather. Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels including Notify NYC, the City's free emergency notification system. Through Notify NYC, New Yorkers can receive phone calls, text messages, and/or emails alerts about traffic and transit disruptions and other emergencies. Sign up for Notify NYC to receive free emergency alerts and updates in your preferred language by visiting NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for your Apple or Android device. 

Justice Department Secures Agreement with Security Services Company to Resolve Immigration-Related Discrimination Claims

 

The Justice Department announced today that it has secured a settlement agreement with Securitas Security Services USA Inc. (Securitas), a protective services company with locations throughout the United States. The agreement resolves the department’s determination that certain Securitas locations violated the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by discriminating against non-U.S. citizens when checking their permission to work in the United States.

“Employers cannot restrict the types of documents workers can use to prove their permission to work,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The department continues to ensure that all workers, regardless of citizenship, immigration status or national origin, are allowed to present valid documents of their choice to prove their permission to work.”

The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) determined that from at least Feb. 3, 2020, to Dec. 20, 2021, Securitas’ East Bay area locations, located in the cities of Concord and Fremont, California, routinely required lawful permanent residents to present a specific immigration document when checking their permission to work. In addition, the department determined that, between Feb. 3, 2020, and June 23, 2022, the company made similar document demands of other non-citizens with permission to work.

Under the terms of the settlement, Securitas will pay $100,000 in civil penalties to the United States and establish a backpay fund of $75,000 to compensate victims of the company’s discriminatory practices, including those who were fired or lost work because they could not comply with the company’s discriminatory document demands. Securitas has also agreed to train its personnel on the INA’s requirements, review its employment policies and be subject to monitoring by the department.

Federal law allows all workers to choose which valid, legally acceptable documentation to present to prove their identity and permission to work, regardless of citizenship status, immigration status or national origin. The INA’s anti-discrimination provision prohibits employers from asking for specific or unnecessary documents because of a worker’s citizenship status, immigration status or national origin. Indeed, many non-U.S. citizens, including lawful permanent residents, are eligible for several of the same types of documents to prove their permission to work as U.S. citizens are (for example, a state ID or driver’s license and an unrestricted Social Security card). Employers must allow workers to present whatever acceptable documentation the workers choose and cannot reject valid documentation that reasonably appears to be genuine.

IER is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits discrimination based on citizenship status and national origin in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee, unfair documentary practices and retaliation and intimidation. 

Find more information on how employers can avoid discrimination when verifying someone’s permission to work on IER’s website. Learn more about IER’s work and how to get assistance through this brief video. Applicants or employees who believe they were discriminated against based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, recruitment or during the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify), or subjected to retaliation, may file a charge. The public can also call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); email IER@usdoj.gov; sign up for a live webinar or watch an on-demand presentation or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe for email updates  from IER.