More families are now eligible to take advantage of the state’s Excelsior Scholarship program.

Until recently, the income cap for free tuition to SUNY schools was $100,000 per year. But Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill expanding the program to include families making $110,000 annually. Eventually that, too, will be increased, up to $125,000.

When that change is made, an estimated 79 percent of Western New York families with college-age children will be eligible for free tuition.

There is a catch, however.

Anyone who benefits from the Excelsior program must stay in New York after graduation for the same number of years that they received the tuition break. If they move before that time has been matched, they will have to repay the money.