New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a bill aimed at reforming the management of bullying in the state’s private schools. The legislation, titled the "Jack Reid Law: Protect All Students Act," was signed in recognition of International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School, according to the Governor's office. The law requires private schools to establish or strengthen anti-bullying policies and reporting procedures.
The law is named in honor of Jack Reid, a 17-year-old who died by suicide in 2022 following a year-long experience with bullying. The Governor's office stated that Hochul, in a statement, underscored the legislation's intent: "Every student deserves to feel safe when they’re learning, online with fellow students or enjoying school events off campus, no matter what school they’re enrolled in." The office also noted that the Governor cited her role as New York's "first Mom-Governor," promising to safeguard the state's children to her utmost ability.
The law requires all New York schools, including private schools, to have stronger policies to handle bullying. Schools must stop bullying in any form, whether on campus, online, or at school events, have a clear anti-bullying policy that students, parents, and staff can access, and set up clear steps for reporting and investigating bullying incidents.
The Jack Reid Law was introduced earlier this year, following the implementation of statewide restrictions on smartphone use in K-12 schools. The Governor's office reported that Elizabeth and Bill Reid, parents of the late Jack Reid, said, "The passage of the Jack Reid Law in New York is a crucial step forward, but it is not the finish line – we look forward to building on this progress and advancing similar protections across the country." The office also noted that several New York State Senators and Assemblymembers expressed support for the law and commended the Reid family's efforts to turn a personal tragedy into legislative action.
Education professionals and lawmakers have expressed support for the Jack Reid Law’s inclusive approach. The Governor's office said that State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky emphasized the importance of children in every school feeling "safe, respected, and supported."
