A new law signed over the weekend by Governor Kathy Hochul will ensure safe and comfortable learning environments by setting a maximum temperature for New York classrooms.
The legislation will require all school districts develop plants to mitigate “extreme heat in classrooms” and support services spaces and to establish a maximum allowable temperature to ensure the health and safety of student, faculty and staff. Governor Kathy Hochul said by setting clear guidelines for extreme heat conditions, the bill will help schools ensure their spaces are so conducive to student learning, reduce unnecessary disruptions, and provide for the health and safety of all those in their buildings.
“Extreme heat can significantly impact a student’s concentration, focus and ability to learn,” Governor Hochul said. “With this new law, we are continuing to make the health and safety of our kids and educators a top priority and ensuring that every New York student has access to the safe and comfortable learning environment they deserve.”
Legislation S3397-A/A9011-A establishes 88 degrees as the maximum temperature in classrooms and support services spaces. It requires a plan for the removal of students and staff from these spaces where it is practical for the school district to do so. It also creates a definition of extreme heat condition days as well as a standard to measure room temperature. In addition to the above, school districts will be required to take action to relieve heat related discomfort when classroom temperatures reach 82 degrees. Such actions can include turning off overhead lights, pulling down shades or blinds, turning on fans, opening classroom doors and windows, turning off electronics, and providing water breaks.
The Property Maintenance Code of New York State currently requires a minimum temperature of 65 degrees in all workspaces in buildings across the state.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
