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Bill

S 5067

Directs the commissioner of education to change the name of the state high school equivalency diploma to the Excelsior diploma

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Gounardes and 3 co-sponsors

Bill S 5067 renames the high school equivalency diploma to the Excelsior diploma, aiming to boost its prestige and improve opportunities for graduates.

ADVANCED TO THIRD READING
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Bill Summary · S 5067

Summary of Bill S 5067

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 5067
  • Title: Directs the commissioner of education to change the name of the state high school equivalency diploma to the Excelsior diploma
  • Status: Referred to Education
  • Introduced: February 18, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 5067 is to officially rename the state high school equivalency diploma to the "Excelsior diploma." This change aims to enhance the recognition and prestige of the diploma, potentially improving its value in the eyes of employers and educational institutions.

Key Provisions

  • Name Change: The bill mandates that the commissioner of education implement a name change from the current designation of the high school equivalency diploma to the Excelsior diploma.
  • Implementation: The bill does not specify a timeline for the implementation of the name change, but it requires the commissioner to take necessary actions to effectuate this change.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Students: Individuals who earn the high school equivalency diploma will receive the new Excelsior diploma, which may carry a more favorable perception.
    • Employers and Educational Institutions: The change may influence how employers and educational institutions view the diploma, potentially leading to increased opportunities for graduates.

  • Public Perception: The rebranding may enhance the overall perception of the equivalency diploma, aligning it with a more aspirational name.

Legislative Actions

  • 2025-02-18: Bill referred to the Education Committee.
  • 2025-05-20: First report calendar (1st REPORT CAL.1159).
  • 2025-05-21: Second report calendar (2ND REPORT CAL.).
  • 2025-05-22: Advanced to third reading.
  • 2025-05-27: Amended on third reading (5067A).
  • 2025-06-10: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly.
  • 2025-06-10: Referred to the Assembly Education Committee.

Related Legislation

  • A 129: This bill serves as a companion to S 5067, indicating that similar legislative efforts are being pursued in the Assembly.

Conclusion

Bill S 5067 represents a significant step towards rebranding the high school equivalency diploma as the Excelsior diploma, with the intent of enhancing its recognition and value. The bill has successfully passed the Senate and is currently under consideration in the Assembly's Education Committee.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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