NY A07177

Establishes "Tuition-Free NY" program allowing students eligible for resident tuition rates to attend SUNY, CUNY, and community colleges without paying tuition and fees.

Requires participating students to sign a contract agreeing to reside in New York State for five years after completing their degree program.

Students must complete their degree within 3-5 years for four-year institutions or 1-3 years for community colleges; failure to meet residency requirements converts tuition benefits into a student loan with interest.

Allows program participants to attend out-of-state graduate school without penalty if they return to New York within one year after completion; exempts active-duty military members maintaining legal New York residency from residency penalties.

Program applies to community colleges for the first two years after enactment, then expands to all SUNY, CUNY, and community college students in subsequent years; students must apply for existing tuition assistance first, and remain responsible for housing, fees, and other non-tuition costs.