NY A03607

Establishes two new programs—the Mental Health Educational Opportunity Program (for SUNY and CUNY) and the Mental Health Higher Educational Opportunity Program (for private regents-incorporated colleges)—to help students pursue degrees required for mental health professional licensure

Targets New York residents who are high school graduates or equivalent, have potential for successful program completion, and are economically and educationally disadvantaged

Requires participating colleges to provide screening, testing, counseling, tutoring, and other support services to enrolled students

Authorizes state funds for remedial courses, summer classes, tutoring, guidance services, and supplemental financial assistance including books and maintenance costs (with eligibility extended to students without lawful immigration status meeting certain criteria)

Mandates annual reports to the Commissioner, Board of Regents, Budget Director, and legislative finance committee chairs detailing program objectives, expenditures, student progress, and resource utilization