Bill > A05464

This bill, known as the "Freedom to Read Act," establishes comprehensive requirements for library materials in public school and public libraries, with the primary goal of protecting intellectual freedom and preventing censorship. The bill affirms that the freedom to read is a constitutional right, and students do not "shed their constitutional rights at the schoolhouse gate." It requires school districts and public libraries to develop policies that recognize the importance of providing diverse and inclusive materials that reflect various perspectives and protected classes, including different races, ages, sexual orientations, and other characteristics. The bill mandates a formal review process for challenges to library materials, requiring the formation of review committees with diverse representation, and stipulates that challenged materials must remain available during the review. Additionally, the bill provides legal protections for school library media specialists and librarians, making it illegal for employers to discriminate against or harass these professionals for refusing to remove library materials that meet established criteria. Library professionals are granted immunity from liability for good faith actions and can pursue civil action against individuals who harass them for performing their professional duties. The bill aims to safeguard intellectual freedom, promote access to information, and protect library professionals from unwarranted harassment while ensuring that library collections remain comprehensive, age-appropriate, and reflective of diverse perspectives.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5464