Library Legislation Vetoed
Late Friday evening, Governor Hochul vetoed S.1099 (May) / A.7777 (Simone), which would have directed the Commissioner of Education to develop “policies” that ensure that school libraries and library staff are “empowered to curate and develop collections that provide students with access to the wide array of developmentally appropriate materials available to school districts.”
Following numerous conversations throughout the year with the bill’s proponents, as well as the legislature, the Governor’s office and the State Education Department, NYSSBA ultimately requested a veto of the legislation. It remained unclear what the bill would or would not technically do or change, and potentially created conflict with other sections of the state law. NYSSBA stressed strong support for the critical and invaluable role that school library staff play for our students in our schools, but expressed concern that the language of the bill failed to recognize the statutory responsibility school boards and superintendents have in directing and supervising school libraries.
Governor Hochul agreed with that sentiment, stating in her veto message that “school librarians already maintain academic freedom over pedagogical decisions to the same extent as teachers, and schools are already prohibited from restricting access to texts and materials simply because school officials disagree or disapprove of their content.” She further noted that she was “concerned that the unclear wording of this bill will do more to confuse than to clarify schools’ obligations and school librarians’ roles.”
Final End of Legislative Session Summary
With the numerous bills signed and vetoed by the Governor on Friday, all legislation that NYSSBA either supported or opposed in 2025 have been acted upon. In total, six individual bills supported by NYSSBA were signed into law (plus another six local bills) and zero individual bills opposed by NYSSBA became law.
You can view a final summary of NYSSBA advocacy during the 2025 legislative session here.
Member Advocacy Opportunities
February 1-3, 2026 – NSBA National Advocacy Institute
We invite you to join us in Washington, DC for the National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) Annual Advocacy Institute. The event is focused on advocacy skills and federal priorities along with a Hill Day. Several members of the Governmental Relations Department will be on hand attending sessions and we will be scheduling meetings with members of the New York Delegation. To join us, you can find details here.
Friday, February 6, 2026 – NYSSBA Annual Capital Conference (Virtual)
Sponsored by Utica National Insurance Group
This half-day morning live virtual advocacy conference will feature conversations with state policymakers, a review of the executive budget proposal and other important information to support your local advocacy efforts. As we have done in the past, the event will be recorded and shared with our members.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 – NYSSBA Annual Lobby Day (In-Person)
Join us for our annual Lobby Day at the NYS Capitol. We will provide a light breakfast, coffee, and talking points. Legislative meetings are scheduled by attendees.
See You Next Year!
NYSSBA Governmental Relations wishes you a very happy and healthy holiday season and warm wishes for a prosperous New Year!