North Shore, LI – The use of corporal punishment will no longer be legal in any school in the State of New York thanks to legislation sponsored by Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-North Shore). The new law (A05010), signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, specifically prohibits teachers, administrators, officers, employees or agents of any school within the state from using the practice, which had been prohibited in public schools but not explicitly barred in all private schools.

An accompanying memo to the legislation defines corporal punishment as the use of physical force to cause pain or harm to someone accused of breaking a law or rule. It notes that forms of corporal punishment include spanking or slapping, hitting with weapons such as paddles, rulers, or belts, and forcing students to perform physically painful activities such as crawling over rough terrain or excessive running.

“Physical punishment in educational settings is abhorrent and I am pleased that New York is protecting our children by outlawing its use. Students must learn in a safe environment. The message to any abusive adults is very simple, keep your hands off our kids,” Lavine said.