SENATOR BIAGGI BILL “ERIN’S LAW” PASSES THE NYS LEGISLATURE REQUIRING EDUCATIONAL PREVENTION PROGRAM AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN SCHOOLS

ALBANY, NY – Today both houses of the New York State Legislature officially passed “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 (D-Bronx/Westchester) issued the following statement:

“As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I have deep gratitude for my colleagues in both houses for prioritizing the passage of ‘Erin’s Law’. Today New York State is taking a critical step to protect the safety of our children by investing in the necessary education to prevent childhood sexual abuse and trauma. This legislation will empower children to speak up if they feel unsafe by providing students with the tools to report instances of sexual abuse and prevent further harm. I am forever grateful to Erin Merryn for bringing this issue to light – because of her bravery to speak out, New York’s children will be that much safer.”