Albany, NY - June 17, 2016 - Commissioner MaryEllen Elia issued statements on recently passed legislation:
Testing for lead in schools’ water systems (A.9687-C Lupardo/S7103-C O’Mara):
There is nothing more important than the safety of our children and the Legislature acted today to further protect them by requiring schools to test their water supplies. Earlier this month, we worked with the federal EPA to develop and disseminate guidance to all school districts on this critical issue. This legislation also allows schools to access building aid funding for such testing and to remediate any problems identified. I would like to thank the Education Chairs, Assemblymember Nolan and Senator Marcellino, as well as bill sponsors Senator O’Mara and Assemblymember Lupardo for advancing this legislation.
Protecting Students Using Online Education Marketplaces (S.4741-B Golden/A.6801-B Lentol):
Students can now take advantage of online education marketplace courses while ensuring they are protected from exorbitant tuition and fees. Technology plays an important role in helping students find courses that will benefit them and this legislation helps them do that with further assurance in the integrity of this process when enrolling in these courses. I appreciate the collaboration of the Higher Education Chairs, Senator LaValle and Assemblymember Glick, as well as the bill sponsors, Senator Golden and Assemblymember Lentol.
Archived Records Funding Sweep Protection (A.10527 Fahy/S.6708-A Ritchie):
I applaud the Legislature, including bill sponsors Senator Ritchie and Assemblymember Fahy, for passing this important bill to ensure local governments have the resources they need to preserve, protect and provide access to vital and archival records. Historically, this has been swept for other purposes. Under this bill, the money would be distributed as local government grants to be used as intended, conserving our state’s history.