Bill > S00016

This bill, known as Jacobe's Law, requires school employees (including principals, counselors, social workers, psychologists, and nurses) to investigate and verify incidents of harassment, bullying, or discrimination. When such an incident is confirmed, the school employee must first discuss the situation with the students involved to determine if they have any health, safety, or privacy concerns. If no such concerns are expressed, the school employee must make a good faith effort to contact the parents or guardians of the students involved by telephone, email, mail, or other means to discuss the incident and potential solutions. If a student expresses health, safety, or privacy concerns, the school employee will use their professional judgment to decide whether contacting the parents would be in the student's best interest. The bill also amends existing law to provide immunity from civil liability for individuals who report such incidents in good faith and protects them from retaliation. This legislation aims to improve communication between schools and parents regarding bullying and harassment, ultimately helping to address and prevent such incidents.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S16