S6980A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring schools to develop plans for informing parents about safe storage of firearms in the home, advancing a child safety measure that cleared the chamber last year. Senate Print 6980A, sponsored by Sen. Mayer, passed on a 51-8 vote, with eight Republicans voting in opposition: Sens. Ashby, Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Oberacker, Ortt, Stec and Tedisco. Sen. Mayer, explaining her vote, characterized the measure as essential to reducing accidental gun injuries involving children and emphasized that "there is nothing more important than ensuring the safety of our children in schools." She noted that while New York has passed laws governing safe gun storage, the bill would reinforce parental awareness of proper storage practices. The legislation now requires Assembly passage to become law.

The Senate passed legislation to amend the Education Law on a 53-9 vote. Sponsored by Sen. Mayer, the bill (S6980A, Calendar 1230) takes effect immediately. Nine senators voted against the measure: Ashby, Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Oberacker, Ortt, Stec, Tedisco and Walczyk. The bill proceeded to a roll call vote without recorded floor debate in this session segment.