Bill > A05403

This bill, known as the "Jack Reid Law: Protect All Students Act," aims to combat bullying and harassment in nonpublic schools by establishing comprehensive protections and procedures. The legislation defines bullying and harassment broadly, including both physical and electronic forms of abuse that interfere with a student's educational experience, cause fear, or create a hostile environment. Schools will be required to develop and publish a clear, age-appropriate anti-bullying policy that outlines how incidents will be reported, investigated, and addressed. School employees will be mandated to promptly report any witnessed or reported bullying incidents, first orally within one school day and then in writing within two school days. When a bullying report is received, school administrators must investigate quickly, communicate findings with the victim, and take appropriate steps to stop the behavior and protect the student from potential retaliation. The bill specifically applies to nonpublic schools and includes protections to ensure that the policy does not infringe on students' rights to free expression or religious views. Importantly, the law recognizes that bullying can compromise students' ability to learn and aims to create a safe, supportive educational environment by fostering civility and preventing conduct inconsistent with a school's educational mission.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5403