Authorizes a teenage parenting skills development demonstration program and appropriates $100,000 therefor

12 Co-sponsors

• Eric Adams
• Ruben Diaz
• Thomas K. Duane
• Ruth Hassell-Thompson
• Shirley L. Huntley
• Liz Krueger
• Velmanette Montgomery
• George Onorato
• Kevin S. Parker
• John L. Sampson
• Diane J. Savino
• Antoine M. Thompson

Title of bill

An act authorizing the commissioner of education to develop a teenage parenting skills development demonstration program and making an appropriation therefor

Purpose or general idea of bill

The purpose of this legislation is to authorize the Commissioner of Education and, the Commissioner of Social Services to develop a teenage parenting demonstration program within three school districts in New York State, one of them being in the City of New York.

Justification

The escalating teenage pregnancy rate is a cause for serious concern for all New Yorkers. Many young people are choosing to keep their babies and are finding that they are ill equipped to handle the complexities and the challenges of parenting while they are still children themselves. It is disheartening to be in this position often with little or no family support. The frustrations of daily life coupled with the difficulties of a newborn can be extremely stressful.

Basic child care and life skills education programs can go a long way to reduce stress of raising a child and increase the confidence and coping skills of young parents. Contact with other young people in the same situation will also provide a sense of community from which to draw strength and encouragement. The goal of this legislation is to inform young parents on how to go about raising a child and how to deal with the stress that comes along with it.

Prior legislative history

This legislation was first introduced in 1995.

Fiscal implications

This legislation appropriates $100,000 to the Commissioner of Education.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.