New York State does not currently require comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in public schools. As a result, many schools across New York do not provide any sexuality education, and when they do, it is often inaccurate, incomplete, or stigmatizing. This educational gap leads to high rates of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STIs) among young people, high rates of intimate partner abuse, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.

Public health experts and researchers agree: teaching comprehensive, age appropriate, medically accurate, and inclusive sexuality education reduces sociological-demographic disparities and improves the overall health and well-being of young people and communities. By passing A.6616/S.2584 and requiring that comprehensive, age appropriate, medically accurate, and inclusive sexuality education be offered to New York students, our state can be a leader in protecting the health and well-being of our young people and communities.