Bill > A05821

This bill enacts the "Media Literacy Act," which introduces comprehensive requirements for media literacy education in New York schools. The bill mandates that teachers and library media specialists complete professional development in media literacy, with teachers required to complete 5 hours and library media specialists required to complete 15 hours during each five-year registration period. The legislation also requires each school district to employ a certified school library media specialist in every elementary, intermediate, middle, junior high, and senior high school, with staffing levels proportional to school enrollment. The bill establishes a media literacy advisory committee tasked with studying media literacy teaching practices, conducting a statewide survey to identify best practices, and developing recommendations for improving media literacy education. The committee will focus on critical skills such as identifying fake media, applying critical thinking when consuming and producing media, and promoting digital citizenship. Additionally, the bill defines media literacy as the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and use media and information, with an emphasis on developing foundational skills for responsible digital engagement. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, an annual review of media literacy policies and procedures will be conducted by a dedicated advisory committee, ensuring ongoing refinement and improvement of media literacy education across the state.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5821