Bill > A01624

This bill creates a comprehensive media literacy education program for students in kindergarten through 12th grade in New York state, defining media literacy as the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and use all forms of communication. The bill requires the state Board of Regents and Commissioner of Education to develop and implement a detailed set of media literacy standards that cover a wide range of digital skills and competencies. These standards include: critically evaluating information from diverse media sources, using digital tools for communication and collaboration, understanding online safety and digital citizenship, managing digital presence, identifying and combating cyberbullying, and recognizing the potential consequences of online actions. The bill mandates that school districts provide instruction in media literacy, preferably by library media specialists, and requires the state to annually review and update these standards to ensure they reflect the most current research and technological developments. Additionally, the bill calls for updating professional teaching standards to help educators effectively incorporate media literacy into their curricula, with an overarching goal of preparing students to be responsible and informed digital citizens.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1624