New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01682

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  

Caption

Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

Summary

Bill S01682 aims to amend the education law in New York by prohibiting the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action for students. It specifies that no educational authority, including school boards, superintendents, or teachers, can require students to attend classes remotely as a disciplinary measure. However, the bill allows for remote learning to be mandated in cases where students fail to adhere to health and safety protocols established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as mask-wearing and social distancing. This exception is intended to ensure that health and safety remain a priority while safeguarding students from punitive measures involving remote learning.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter how disciplinary actions are handled in New York schools, ensuring that remote learning cannot be used as a punitive measure. This change would require school districts to revise their codes of conduct and communicate these policies clearly on their websites. The bill emphasizes the importance of in-person education and aims to prevent the potential negative impacts of remote learning on students' academic and social development.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S01682 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for student rights and educational equity. Discussions indicate a recognition of the challenges posed by remote learning, especially as a form of punishment, and a desire to protect students from such measures. However, there may be some concerns regarding the exceptions related to health protocols, as some stakeholders might view this as a potential loophole.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the exceptions for remote learning related to health and safety protocols. Some educators and administrators may argue that the ability to enforce remote learning in specific situations is necessary for maintaining safety, while advocates for students may contend that any form of remote learning as punishment should be entirely prohibited. This could lead to debates about the balance between safety and the rights of students to receive equitable treatment in disciplinary actions.

Companion Bills

NY A04388

Same As Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

Previously Filed As

NY S01996

Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

NY A01847

Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

NY A04388

Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

NY HB452

Providing for amnesty for disciplinary actions regarding COVID-19 protocols.

NY HB451

In powers and duties, providing for amnesty for disciplinary actions regarding COVID-19 protocols.

NY HB450

In Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, providing for amnesty for disciplinary actions regarding COVID-19 protocols.

NY H0523

Virtual Learning

NY SB2614

Corporal punishment; prohibit administration of in public and charter schools for disciplinary matters.

NY SB2296

Corporal punishment; prohibit administration of in public and charter schools for disciplinary matters.

NY HB1096

Relating to the use of corporal punishment and to the reporting of certain information regarding the use of disciplinary measures or restraint by public schools.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.