OpenSecrets data shows that CUNY contributed $2,665,156 and spent $200,000 on lobbying activities during the 2024 cycle. The data is presented factually without indication that these financial actions are being used to support authoritarian policies.

CUNY is being sued in New York state court for refusing to disclose details about its investment holdings and contracts with over 30 companies, a move that has sparked calls for investigating its management of public funds and divestment from companies involved in controversial military actions.

An independent review, ordered by NY Governor Kathy Hochul and led by Judge Jonathan Lippman, criticized CUNY’s decentralized policies in handling antisemitism and discrimination. The report called for a comprehensive overhaul, including a centralized complaints portal, creation of a discrimination center, and strengthened accountability measures. CUNY has welcomed the report and committed to implementing the 13 recommendations, signaling a progressive step toward protecting marginalized students.

The New York Civil Liberties Union filed an Article 78 lawsuit against the City University of New York on May 1, 2024, challenging the institution's refusal to release records concerning its investment funds, bonds, private equity holdings, and contracts with companies such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrup Grumman. The action follows a Freedom of Information Law request made by a CUNY Law student on behalf of advocacy groups for justice in Palestine.

City University of New York reached tentative contract agreements with three unions representing more than 10,000 non-pedagogical staff. The deals, which include a 14.9% compounded wage increase over 67 months and a minimum wage of $18 per hour (retroactive to July 1, 2023), are set to be ratified by union rank-and-file members and approved by the CUNY Board of Trustees.

City University of New York spent $80,000 on lobbying activities in 2023, as reported by OpenSecrets. This expenditure reflects the university's active engagement in shaping policy debate, likely aimed at promoting policies that support accessible education and social mobility.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced an independent review of CUNY's policies on antisemitism and discrimination on November 6, 2023. The review, led by former Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman, is intended to strengthen protections for Jewish students and staff while ensuring free speech rights are maintained. CUNY has expressed cooperation with the review, although free speech advocates caution against potential overreach that might stifle political expression on campus.

Following a comprehensive review by former Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman and directives from Gov. Kathy Hochul, CUNY has been urged to overhaul its policies to deal with hate crimes and antisemitism more effectively across its campuses.

The webpage provides an overview of the Office of Labor Relations at the City University of New York, detailing its responsibilities in developing labor relations policies, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and engaging with unions.

The City University of New York's webpage details labor contracts negotiated by the Mayor’s Office of Labor Relations under New York State Education Laws. The page outlines provisions that indemnify the university and its employees, reflecting established labor negotiation practices and protections for worker rights.

Multiple incidents at CUNY campuses during the fall led to journalists being handcuffed, detained, or escorted off campus while reporting on sensitive topics. These actions contributed to a chilling effect on press freedom and raise concerns over evolving anti-media bias within a major public university system.