CUNY advocates push for free MetroCards to alleviate financial barriers for students

In a recent NYC Council meeting focused on removing small financial barriers for City University of New York (CUNY) students, key discussions highlighted the pressing need for support amid rising costs of living and education. The meeting, held on April 30, 2025, brought together students, faculty, and council members to address the challenges faced by over 245,000 CUNY students across 25 campuses.

One of the central topics was the proposal for free MetroCards for CUNY students, aimed at alleviating transportation costs that hinder access to education. Faculty members expressed strong support for this initiative, sharing testimonies from students who struggle to afford transportation. One student, for instance, resorted to playing music on the streets to fund her commute, illustrating the lengths to which some students go to attend classes.

Daniel Redden, chairperson of the University Student Senate, emphasized the broader context of financial struggles faced by students, including housing and food insecurity. He noted that CUNY has made strides in addressing these issues, such as establishing food pantries that saw over 200,000 visits in 2024. However, he argued that more needs to be done, particularly in providing free public transportation, which he described as a "quiet but persistent barrier" to college completion.

Akeem Pollack, vice chair for legislative affairs for the University Student Senate, reinforced the call for comprehensive support, stating that the current proposals do not go far enough. He criticized the notion of partial solutions, advocating instead for full access to resources that would enable students to thrive academically without the burden of financial stress.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing these financial barriers as students navigate an increasingly challenging economic landscape. As discussions continue, the council's commitment to supporting CUNY students will be crucial in shaping policies that promote educational equity and accessibility. The next steps will involve further advocacy and potential budget allocations to implement the proposed initiatives, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede students' educational journeys.