New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01208

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Provides for a gun violence prevention program in the public schools; provides that the program is to be developed by the department of education in conjunction with other state agencies and educational organizations and is to be made available to schools for use in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade; provides for a report to the governor and the legislature on the program; enacts the "gun violence prevention act".

Summary

Bill A01208, known as the 'Gun Violence Prevention Act', aims to establish a gun violence prevention program within New York's public schools. The program is designed to educate school-aged youth and their families on developing skills to prevent gun violence, manage conflicts non-violently, and cope with peer pressure. It emphasizes practical skills, self-reflection, and community involvement, and is intended to be implemented from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. The program will be developed by the Department of Education in consultation with various state agencies and educational organizations.

Impact

This bill amends the education law by adding a new section that mandates the creation of a gun violence prevention program in schools. It impacts state laws by requiring educational institutions to adopt and implement this program, which aims to reduce gunshot injuries among children and adolescents. The bill also establishes a framework for evaluating the program's effectiveness and provides for a report to be submitted to the governor and legislature by July 2028, assessing its impact and recommending future actions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill A01208 appears to be generally supportive among its sponsors and advocates, who emphasize the need for preventive education to address gun violence among youth. However, there may be concerns from opponents regarding the implications for gun ownership rights and the effectiveness of such educational programs, as discussions around gun control often evoke strong emotions and differing opinions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from groups advocating for gun rights, who may view the bill as an infringement on Second Amendment rights or question the effectiveness of educational programs in preventing gun violence. Conversely, proponents argue that preventive education is essential for reducing gun-related injuries and deaths among young people. The balance between promoting gun safety and respecting individual rights is likely to be a focal point of debate.

Companion Bills

NY S07170

Same As Provides for a gun violence prevention program in the public schools; provides that the program is to be developed by the department of education in conjunction with other state agencies and educational organizations and is to be made available to schools for use in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade; provides for a report to the governor and the legislature on the program; enacts the "gun violence prevention act".

Previously Filed As

NY A02531

Provides for a gun violence prevention program in the public schools; provides that the program is to be developed by the department of education in conjunction with other state agencies and educational organizations and is to be made available to schools for use in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade; provides for a report to the governor and the legislature on the program; enacts the "gun violence prevention act".

NY S07170

Provides for a gun violence prevention program in the public schools; provides that the program is to be developed by the department of education in conjunction with other state agencies and educational organizations and is to be made available to schools for use in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade; provides for a report to the governor and the legislature on the program; enacts the "gun violence prevention act".

NY S0702

Mental Health Programs for Gun Violence Prevention

NY H0155

Mental Health Programs for Gun Violence Prevention

NY HB230

Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.

NY SB1725

Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.

NY H0441

Gun Violence Prevention Pilot Program

NY HB441

Gun Violence Prevention Pilot Program:

NY HB1411

Quality Basic Education Act; include domestic violence prevention in the existing program for teen dating violence prevention for students

NY S04092

Relates to teen dating violence education programs; requires school districts to create policies, procedures and guidelines to implement education programs for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade to prevent, deter and address incidents of teen dating violence; defines teen dating violence.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.