In the opening days of the state budget battle, the budget axe chopped several programs aimed at giving students access to college. Assemblyman Tom Alfano was one legislator who said those kind of cuts were "dead on arrival." Alfano was as good as his word as news spread that the state budget enacted this past week would restore and save programs like college loans, TAP, Bundy Aid and Regents Scholarships.

In addition, the assemblyman announced that special programs like HEOP, EOP and Community College Aid were not only restored, but were boosted to meet the challenges of more students attending college.

"These are programs that are the great equalizers," said Alfano who added, "It makes the price of college affordable and accessible to everyone."

Schools like Nassau Community College would actually get a great deal under the Alfano-backed plan. Under the new Community College plan, Alfano was able to deliver an additional $165 per student enrolled in a community college. Not only did the Alfano-backed initiative boost funding for full-time enrolled students, but community colleges will see an increase of $13.8 million in operating aid.

"There are so many young people throughout the Franklin Square, Elmont, North Valley Stream and West Hempstead community who attend Nassau Community College who count on this aid. I wouldn't sign off on any deal that would not address their needs," Alfano said.

Scholarships and loan programs were saved and enhanced under the new budget plan as well. Merit scholarship aid, Bundy Aid, TAP, Health Care Opportunity Scholarships, Regents Professional Opportunity Programs, Regents Physician Loan Forgiveness and CUNY's part-time TAP pilot program were saved.

Education is the key to success in today's global economy. We can't expect our young people to compete in the business world without the tools they need to get the job done. Programs, scholarship aid and loan access are part of the solution," Alfano concluded.