Pataki Renews Call For "Suzanne’s

Pataki Renews Call For "Suzanne’s

Law" To Beef-Up School Security

Governor George E. Pataki has renewed his call for the passage of "Suzanne’s Law," an important criminal justice reform that would increase safety in schools throughout New York - from nursery schools to college campuses - by increasing penalties for a wide array of crimes committed on school grounds. The legislation is named after University at Albany student Suzanne Lyall of Saratoga County, who disappeared in March of 1999.

New York State will not tolerate violence in any school setting, whether it’s a nursery school, grade school, high school or university," Governor Pataki said. "We’ve made tremendous progress in our efforts to reduce violence all across the State and last year we took another giant step forward with passage of our landmark school safety legislation- Project SAVE.

Our schools must be a safe haven where students can learn and teachers can teach - and the passage of Suzanne’s Law is the logical next step in our effort to eliminate violence in our schools," the Governor said.

"The Senate has approved this legislation with strong bipartisan support for the last two years and I would encourage the Assembly to follow suit."

Doug and Mary Lyall, the parents of Suzanne said, "Without a safe and secure learning environment, it is impossible for students to receive a quality education.

Schools should be seen as ‘sacred places,’ and there needs to be zero tolerance for serious criminal acts.

We believe that education is our future and students need to feel secure and safe. This bill will give a clear message that schools are a sanctuary for learning."

The bill expands the term "school grounds.," to include nursery schools, daycare facilities, trade schools, junior colleges, community colleges, colleges, universities and any other institution of higher education.