NY S08405

Replaces "minority" language with "underrepresented ethnic group" in STEP and CSTEP admission criteria to align with recent legal findings and allow admission of any student from any group underrepresented in their chosen STEM, licensed profession, or health profession field.

Requires the New York State Board of Regents to periodically review workforce data to identify levels of ethnic representation in eligible professions prior to releasing program RFPs, with underrepresentation determined using available workforce statistics.

Expands the definition of "eligible profession" to include any scientific, technical, health, health-related profession or any profession licensed under New York law.

Removes the requirement that programs be located in school districts with at least twenty percent minority enrollment or near such districts accessible by public transportation.

Takes effect thirty days after enactment, with authorization for the commissioner to issue necessary rules and regulations immediately upon passage.