Recently in Albany, Assemblymen Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) was pleased to welcome student journalism advocates from Corning-Painted Post High School to the capitol.

Palmesano, Assemblywoman Lupardo (D-Endwell) and Sen. Tom O’Mara (R,C-Big Flats) sponsored “The Student Journalist Free Speech Act,” legislation which would give student-run publications editorial control over their content. They worked closely with advocates from Corning-Painted Post High School while drafting the legislation.

“The future of our democracy is dependent on a free and vibrant press. Student journalists deserve to exercise their First Amendment rights. This legislation teaches students a valuable lesson at a young age: the importance of accountability. Our bill prevents student journalists from being censored by administrators. It also means that students can’t blame administrators if their readership takes issue with their work. This legislation empowers student journalists to be fair, decent, objective and honest. Their readers will hold them to it. We think these kids are ready for the challenge. It’s about preparing them for the real world,” said Palmesano.