Bill > A05949

This bill mandates that trustees of common school districts and boards of education for union free school districts must establish and annually review a code of ethics by July 31, 2026. The code of ethics must include specific standards that prohibit school employees and officers from using school property or resources for personal gain. Additionally, these districts must file a copy of their ethics code with the state comptroller and the education department within 30 days of approval, and similarly file any subsequent amendments within 30 days of adoption. The bill also requires school board members to undergo training that includes an examination of the district's code of ethics during their first year of service, and mandates that annual financial audits of school districts include a review of transactions to ensure compliance with the established code of ethics. The act will take effect on the first of July following its passage and will apply to the subsequent school year, with immediate authorization for preparing necessary implementing regulations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5949