Bill > S02425

This bill requires the New York Board of Regents to create rules that allow and encourage teachers and administrators in public schools to read or display excerpts from important historical documents and writings that reflect American heritage. The specified documents include the New York State Constitution's preamble, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Mayflower Compact, the national motto, national anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, writings and speeches from founding fathers and U.S. presidents, historical documents from pre-colonial through post-federalist eras, Supreme Court decisions, Congressional records, and other primary source materials. The bill's legislative intent emphasizes the importance of exposing students to primary source documents and preventing any intentional or unintentional censorship of historical writings that document American history and heritage. The proposed rules aim to ensure that schools can freely share these historical texts without content-based restrictions, with the goal of promoting a deeper understanding of American history and civic values. The act would take effect on the first of September following its passage, with provisions for the Board of Regents to develop implementation rules in advance.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2425