Senator Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. (8th Senate District - Merrick) announced today that the New York State Senatoe passed his legislation which would increase the penalty for assult on a teacher or other school employee.

"In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in violent physical attacks on teachers and other school personnel," Fuschillo said. "This legislation would respond to this growing problem and help provide a greater degree of safety and security for school employees by raising penalties, discouraging initial incidents and punishing violent criminals. With recent tragedies heightening awareness of school violence, this bill is needed now more than ever."

Fuschillo's bill has now moved on to the Assembly for immediate action. "It is imperative the Assembly pass this legislation so school employees can do their jobs and our children have the ability to learn in a climate of safety and security," said Senator Majority Leader Joseph Bruno.

According to Fuschillo, his legislation would elevate the penalty of assault on a school employee to Assault in the Second Degree, which is a Class D felony. The employees would be covered when they are engaged in a position supervising or instructing students.