Bill > A01208

This bill establishes a comprehensive gun violence prevention program for students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade, developed by the state department of education in collaboration with various state agencies and educational organizations. The program aims to address the significant issue of gunshot injuries among youth, which account for twelve percent of premature deaths, by providing practical skills and educational resources to help students manage conflict, peer pressure, and potential violent situations non-violently. The proposed program will include opportunities for self-reflection, role-playing, goal-setting, and developing leadership skills, with an emphasis on parental and community involvement. Schools can voluntarily implement the program using materials provided by the department, and the department is required to submit a report to the governor and legislature by July 1, 2028, evaluating the program's effectiveness in reducing gunshot injuries and recommending whether the program should be expanded, modified, or discontinued. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that the program does not oppose responsible gun ownership or supervised gun use for hunting or sport. The act will take effect 180 days after becoming law.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1208