Relates to requiring community service as a condition for graduation from public or private high school

BILL NUMBER:A4791 REVISED 04/06/10

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring community service as a condition for graduation from public or private high school

Purpose or general idea of bill

This bill relates to requiring community service as a condition for graduation from public or private high school.

Summary of specific provisions

The education law is amended by adding a new section 319 to require community service as a condition of graduation for public or private high school.

Justification

The requirement of community service prior to graduation will benefit both the student and the community. Requiring student participation in wider "real community" projects would help the student's all-round development. In turn, the community would benefit from the many new volunteers they would gain. The requirement of community service would not interfere with the students overall academic performance-since the hours of service are to be done on weekends or evenings during the week. Furthermore, the mandated 20 hours over a four year period certainly would not interfere with the student's other obligations.

Prior legislative history

2008 A.4591 - Referred to Education 2007 A.4591 - Referred to Education 2006 A.433 - Referred to Education 2004 A.1463 - Referred to Education 2002 A.3295 - Referred to Education

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first of July next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law; provided, however, that any rules and regulations necessary for the timely implementation of this act on its effective date shall be promulgated on or before such date.