Bill > S06901

This bill establishes the Healthy and Safe Students Act, which requires comprehensive sexuality education for all students in kindergarten through 12th grade across public and charter schools in New York. The legislation mandates that the education commissioner, in consultation with the health commissioner, develop a comprehensive sexuality education program that includes model curricula, lesson plans, and instructional materials aligned with national sexuality education standards. The program must be age-appropriate, medically accurate, and cover topics such as human anatomy, consent, healthy relationships, prevention of sexual violence, methods for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, gender identity, and the impact of technology on interpersonal relationships. The bill emphasizes that the curriculum must be trauma-responsive, culturally appropriate, and inclusive of all students regardless of race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. School districts must either adopt the state-prescribed curriculum or develop their own that meets specific criteria, and they are required to establish advisory councils to provide recommendations on curriculum content. The education department will publish guidance and model curricula, and the commissioner will conduct reviews to monitor implementation. The act is set to take effect on the first of July following its passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6901