Major Victory for Yeshivas: New Bill Passes NY Legislature, Easing ‘Substantial Equivalency’ Burden

At a time when intense advocacy efforts continue to combat New York’s education regulations, a positive development unfolded today in the state legislature: a new bill has cleared both chambers and now awaits the governor’s signature.

This advancement follows months of hard work by elected officials representing Orthodox Jewish communities. Leading the charge was Assemblymember Simcha Eichenstein, with assistance from Aron B. Wieder, Sam Berger, and Kalman Yeger under the leadership of Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. On the Senate side, Senator James Skoufis of Kiryas Joel played a key role, with active involvement from Senator Salazar of Williamsburg, Senator Zellnor Myrie of Crown Heights, and others. Governor Kathy Hochul’s support and the advocacy of Congressman Pat Ryan were also instrumental.

Once signed into law, the bill is expected to be interpreted favorably by the New York State Education Department to protect the future of Torah education and move toward fully overturning the troubling “substantial equivalency” regulations that have threatened yeshiva curricula.

One of the key highlights of the new legislation is that it extends the timeline for schools to demonstrate compliance with the state’s “substantial equivalency” requirement, easing immediate pressure on many yeshivas. It also introduces several beneficial changes, such as expanding the number of testing options available to students and creating alternative pathways for schools under investigation—or deemed non-equivalent—to meet the requirements more easily.

Klal Yisroel is hopeful that this measure will preserve the integrity of yeshiva education in New York. With final passage complete, advocates are now focusing on ensuring a smooth implementation phase once the governor affixes her signature.