Late Friday evening, the governor signed the extreme temperature bill, which passed both houses of the Legislature this past June. Our statement on the passage of this landmark legislation here.
What this law does
This law requires all school districts and BOCES to develop policies protecting students and staff during extreme heat conditions. This is the first law that has ever established maximum temperature regulations for schools. At 82 degrees, schools must implement measures like turning off overhead lights, using fans and closing blinds. At 88 degrees or higher, schools must have plans to relocate students and staff when practicable. This means districts must develop plans to take action during high-heat days, and must show a good-faith effort to enact these plans when needed. The law does not require school closures.
In the coming months, NYSUT will be providing our locals with additional resources to track how districts are responding to high-heat events. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025.