NY Legislation Would Mandate Sex Abuse Awareness In Schools

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Supporters of a bill to require schools to offer education on sexual abuse awareness are returning to Albany to make another push.

The bill, known as Erin's Law, would mandate age-appropriate lessons to help children understand the difference between inappropriate and appropriate touching, as well as how to report abuse to a trusted adult.

The bill is already law in 35 other states and while it's passed the state Senate in New York, it has been blocked by the Assembly. Critics have said lawmakers should leave curriculum questions to state education officials.

Supporters will gather Monday at the Capitol to urge lawmakers to pass the measure. Erin's law is named for Erin Merryn, an abuse survivor and advocate for abuse victims who has lobbied for the bill across the country.