New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08458

Introduced
5/16/25  

Caption

Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

Impact

If enacted, A08458 would significantly influence state education laws by adding climate change as a formal component of the school curriculum. This initiative aligns with a broader educational trend focusing on environmental literacy. Schools will be required to provide the necessary resources, such as learning aids and materials, to enhance the teaching and learning experience regarding climate change. The bill is positioned to reflect a commitment to preparing students for future environmental stewardship.

Summary

Assembly Bill A08458 is a legislative initiative aimed at embedding climate change education within the existing science curriculum of public schools in New York. The bill mandates that climate change instruction be incorporated for students from grades one through twelve. The overarching goal is to ensure that all public school students receive foundational knowledge about climate change, its effects, and its importance in contemporary society, thereby fostering a generation of informed citizens who can engage effectively with environmental challenges.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote environmental awareness, it could face opposition regarding curriculum content, the allocation of resources, and how the instruction is administered. Potential concerns may include debates over the scientific consensus on climate change and differing opinions on its educational impact. Additionally, school authorities would need to grapple with logistical challenges related to implementing the requirements stipulated by the bill, such as professional training for educators and adjusting current teaching schedules to accommodate the new subject matter.

Companion Bills

NY S06617

Same As Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

Previously Filed As

NY S05661

Requires climate change instruction within the current established science curriculum; requires such instruction be taught in grades one through twelve.

NY S05743

Requires a police officer to be present at schools within the city of New York during instructional hours and at least one hour prior and one hour after such instructional hours.

NY S09645

Requires high schools to teach first aid instruction to students in grades nine through twelve.

NY A10630

Requires high schools to teach first aid instruction to students in grades nine through twelve.

NY A02842

Establishes the water safety instruction working group to study appropriate standards for curriculum on water safety instruction for students in grades kindergarten through twelve in the state.

NY A02091

Requires the public school curriculum for children in kindergarten through grade twelve to include a minimum of two hours per week instruction in civics lessons.

NY S03181

Requires the public school curriculum for children in kindergarten through grade twelve to include a minimum of two hours per week instruction in civics lessons.

NY S02428

Requires LGBT awareness curriculum or instruction.

NY A07672

Requires LGBT awareness curriculum or instruction.

NY A08306

Requires that instruction in financial literacy be provided to pupils in grades nine through twelve; establishes what should be included in such curriculum including the basics of financial planning, budgeting, borrowing, interest rates, and personal insurance policies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.