Bill > A04495

This bill creates a new "guardians for schools" specialty license plate and establishes a dedicated fund to support school safety initiatives. Vehicle owners in New York can apply for the distinctive license plate, which will cost the standard registration fee plus an additional $25 annual service charge. The collected funds will be deposited into a new "guardians for schools fund" managed jointly by the state's tax and finance commissioner and the comptroller. The fund's primary purpose is to enhance security in public schools by providing financial support for measures such as school resource officers, security training, mental health counseling, metal detectors, security cameras, and other building modifications to improve safety. The Commissioner of Education will establish guidelines for how the funds can be used and will oversee the fund's implementation. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the fund's monies can only be used for school security purposes and cannot be diverted to the general fund. The legislation will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for developing necessary regulations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4495