Bill > A06470

This bill introduces the "Nonpublic Dignity for All Students Act," which aims to prevent discrimination, harassment, and bullying in private, religious, and denominational schools. The bill defines key terms such as harassment, which includes creating a hostile environment through conduct, threats, intimidation, or abuse that substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or causes emotional or physical harm. It prohibits discrimination based on characteristics like race, color, weight, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and gender, covering both school property and school functions. The bill specifically includes protections for hairstyles historically associated with race and provides a comprehensive definition of cyberbullying. Importantly, the legislation offers immunity from civil liability for individuals who, in good faith, report incidents of discrimination, harassment, or bullying to school officials or law enforcement. The bill also ensures that individuals who report such incidents cannot face retaliation from schools or employees. While the bill provides broad protections, it includes exceptions for course instruction and does not intend to abridge First Amendment rights. The act will take effect on the first of July following its passage, signaling a commitment to creating safer, more inclusive educational environments in nonpublic schools.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6470