Yesterday the New York State Senate passed bill S4070B, also known as “Erin’s Law”. Sponsored by State Senator Alessandra Biaggi, the bill requires the commissioner of education to make recommendations to the board of regents relating to instruction on preventing child sexual exploitation and abuse in grades Kindergarten through 8th. The goal is to provide training for children to identify and appropriately respond to sexual abuse.
State Senator Alessandra Biaggi issued the following statement:
“As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I understand the full gravity of how important this piece of legislation is. The purpose of this bill is to give children the tools to report instances of sexual abuse in order to stop and prevent further harm, as well as provide reassurance to students that they should speak up if they feel unsafe. I am inspired by the devoted leadership of Erin Merryn in bringing this issue to light – I look forward to seeing this bill pass into law and implemented as soon as possible.”
