Bill > A04980

This bill amends the New York State education law to expand the requirements for school safety plans by adding training in non-lethal defense skills for school personnel. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language about school safety strategies to include training for all school staff in alternative defense techniques, such as using gel pepper spray, tasers, and other non-lethal forms of defense. The provision would be inserted alongside existing safety strategies like collaborative arrangements with law enforcement, de-escalation training, non-violent conflict resolution, peer mediation, and extended day safety programs. The bill aims to provide school staff with additional tools and skills to respond to potential security threats while emphasizing non-lethal methods. The changes would go into effect on the first of July following the bill's passage into law, giving schools time to implement the new training requirements.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4980