S8073

The New York State Senate passed S8073, sponsored by Sen. Jackson, an act to amend the Civil Service Law, on a vote of 61-0. The bill aims to inform students at BOCES, public colleges, and universities about opportunities to take the Civil Service exam and pursue careers in public service. During floor debate, Sen. Ramos praised the legislation, noting that it addresses workforce readiness for college students who increasingly work while studying amid rising education costs. Ramos contextualized the bill within broader efforts to improve workplace readiness, citing complementary legislation she introduced with Assemblymember Harry Bronson to create a workplace readiness curriculum in New York high schools. That curriculum would equip students with financial literacy tools, including how to read paychecks, file wage theft claims, access unemployment insurance, and organize unions—skills Ramos emphasized are particularly important for entry-level workers who are often vulnerable to exploitation. The bill takes effect on the same date and in the same manner as a chapter of the Laws of 2023.