S8821A
An act to amend the Education Law — 2024-05-29 · Calendar #1066
The New York State Senate passed legislation to rename the General Equivalency Diploma to the Excelsior high school diploma, addressing concerns that GED recipients face stigma and disadvantages in job interviews. Senate Print 8821A, sponsored by Sen. Sepúlveda, passed on a 57-2 vote, with only Sens. Lanza and Skoufis voting in opposition. Sepúlveda explained that over the years he has met with GED recipients who felt stigmatized by the credential's name when seeking employment. The bill aims to create a source of pride for diploma holders and remove perceived barriers in the job market. The legislation will take effect 90 days after becoming law.
PASSED
Ayes: 57
· Nays: 2
Debate Summary
Sen. Sepúlveda explained that the bill addresses stigma experienced by students who receive General Equivalency Diplomas (GEDs). According to the senator, GED recipients sometimes face disadvantages in job interviews and feel stigmatized by the credential's name. The bill proposes renaming the GED diploma to the Excelsior high school diploma to create a source of pride and eliminate perceived barriers to employment.
Recorded Votes
Recorded votes are predominantly dissenting (nay) votes captured from roll call records.
| Senator | Vote | Party |
|---|---|---|
| Sepúlveda | aye | |
| Lanza | nay | Republican |
| Skoufis | nay | Democrat |