Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. recently hosted a public hearing for Governor George Pataki's School Violence Task Force at Merrick Avenue Middle School, Merrick. Lt. Governor Mary O. Donohue chairs the task force.

"Testimony from students, teachers, parents, and administrators provided task force members with valuable input and recommendations to help deal with school violence," said Senator Fuschillo. "Through the task force, Lt. Governor Donohue is opening a dialogue and gathering worthy information to formulate a plan to help rid our schools of violence."

The State Senate recently passed legislation sponsored by Fuschillo increasing the penalty from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony for any student assaulting a teacher. Fuschillo, a member of the Senate's Education Committee, also introduced legislation that would require a mandatory psychological evaluation for any student charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds.

Governor Pataki's Task Force is comprised of highly qualified individuals from throughout the state consisting of teachers, community leaders, law enforcement officials, administrators and students. The panel is holding a series of 10 hearings across the state over the next several months before making its recommendations.

"The issue of school violence has recently been heightened by the tragedy in Colorado," said Fuschillo. "I am confident the Governor's Task Force will ensure that our schools will continue to be for the education and growth of our children and not violence and danger."