Governor signs bill to protect students, teachers from extreme heat in classrooms

88 degrees set as the maximum temperature inside schools

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

 Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation to require that all school districts develop plans to mitigate extreme heat in classrooms and support services spaces and to establish a maximum allowable temperature to ensure the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff.

By setting clear guidelines for extreme heat conditions, the bill will help schools ensure their spaces are conducive to student learning, reduce unnecessary disruptions, and provide for the health and safety of all those in their buildings.

“Extreme heat can significantly impact a student’s concentration, focus and ability to learn,” Governor Hochul said. “With this new law, we are continuing to make the health and safety of our kids and educators a top priority and ensuring that every New York student has access to the safe and comfortable learning environment they deserve.”

Legislation S3397-A/A9011-A establishes 88 degrees as the maximum temperature in classrooms and support services spaces. It requires a plan for the removal of students and staff from these spaces where it is practical for the school district to do so. It also creates a definition of extreme heat condition days as well as a standard to measure room temperature.

In addition to the above, school districts will be required to take action to relieve heat related discomfort when classroom temperatures reach 82 degrees. Such actions can include turning off overhead lights, pulling down shades or blinds, turning on fans, opening classroom doors and windows, turning off electronics, and providing water breaks.

The Property Maintenance Code of New York State currently requires a minimum temperature of 65 degrees in all workspaces in buildings across the state.

New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) President Melinda Person said, “Today, we celebrate a monumental step forward for the health and safety of students and educators across New York. Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to sign this bill into law reflects a commitment to ensuring our classrooms are conducive to learning—not sweltering saunas.”

New York State Parent Teacher Association Executive Director Kyle Belokopitsky said, “Our children’s health and wellness must always be of utmost importance to us all. Setting common sense rules for maximum temperatures in classrooms will protect our kids. And that is truly all of our jobs – to protect our children and ensure they are safe and supported each and every day.”