New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04015

Introduced
1/31/25  
Refer
1/31/25  

Caption

Provides that the dignity for all students act shall apply to private, religious or denominational educational institutions.

Summary

Bill S04015 seeks to amend the New York education law to extend the application of the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) to private, religious, or denominational educational institutions. Currently, DASA does not apply to these types of schools, which means that students in such institutions may not have the same protections against discrimination and harassment as those in public schools. This bill aims to ensure that all students, regardless of the type of institution they attend, are afforded the same rights and protections under the law.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the legal landscape for private and religious schools in New York by subjecting them to the same anti-discrimination standards that public schools must adhere to under DASA. This change could lead to increased accountability for these institutions regarding the treatment of students and may require them to implement new policies and training to comply with the law. Additionally, it could open the door for legal actions from students and parents who believe their rights have been violated.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S04015 appears to be supportive among advocates for student rights and anti-discrimination. Proponents argue that all students deserve equal protection under the law, regardless of the type of school they attend. However, there may be concerns from some religious and private institutions about the implications of this bill on their autonomy and the potential for conflicts with their educational philosophies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential pushback from private and religious schools that argue the bill infringes on their rights to operate according to their beliefs and values. Opponents of the bill may express concerns about the implications for religious freedom and the ability of these institutions to maintain their identity without government interference. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the need for equal protections for all students, regardless of their school type.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S0112

Establishes a new educational program that allows students to enroll public and private schools of their choice.

NY S2556

Establishes a new educational program that allows students to enroll public and private schools of their choice.

NY SB85

Vaccines; religious exemption for K-12 students, further provided for; religious exemption for students at public institutions of higher education, provided

NY HB503

Vaccines; religious exemption for K-12 students, further provided for; religious exemption for students at public institutions of higher education, provided

NY HB24

Vaccines; religious exemption for K-12 students further provided for, religious exemption for students at public institutions of higher education provided

NY S0237

Provides protections for students and parents against discrimination on the basis of a religious viewpoint or religious expression in schools. Allows students to pray or engage in religious activities before, during or after school.

NY A08310

Amends early voting provisions; provides that an application for an absentee ballot that does not provide a reason that the applicant is entitled to such a ballot shall be processed as an application for an early mail ballot.

NY A11415

Provides that certain institutions of higher education shall meet certain standards that do not infringe upon academic freedom

NY S10303

Provides that certain institutions of higher education shall meet certain standards or adopt rules that do not infringe upon academic freedom; provides that academic freedom shall be defined by the 1940 Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure with 1970 Interpretive Comments; establishes courses of action that may be taken int the event of alleged violations of academic freedom.

NY S0046

Nonpublic Religious Postsecondary Educational Institutions

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.