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Bill

K 116

Recognizing February 27, 2025, as Student Press Freedom Day

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Donna Lupardo

Declares Feb 27, 2025 as Student Press Freedom Day to recognize student journalism and promote awareness of First Amendment rights in schools and libraries.

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Bill Summary · K 116

Summary of Bill K 116: Recognizing February 27, 2025 as Student Press Freedom Day

Overview

Bill K 116 is a concurrent resolution whose purpose is to recognize and designate February 27, 2025, as Student Press Freedom Day. The bill is adopted as of February 24, 2025 and is sponsored by primary sponsor Donna Lupardo. As a resolution, it serves as a formal statement of recognition rather than as a statute enacted with fiscal or regulatory effect.

Purpose and Intent

  • Acknowledge the value of student journalism and the contributions of student journalists to a free and informed society.
  • Promote awareness of student press freedom and First Amendment rights within educational communities.
  • Encourage observation and discussion of student journalism issues among schools, libraries, and related institutions.

Key Provisions

  • Declares February 27, 2025, as Student Press Freedom Day within the state.
  • Encourages educational institutions, libraries, and community organizations to observe the day and to promote awareness of student press freedom, the role of student journalists, and the importance of a free press in education.
  • Serves as a non-binding expression of support for student media and related freedoms.

Affected Parties

  • Students and student journalists
  • Educational institutions (K–12 and higher education)
  • School media programs and student press organizations
  • Libraries and community organizations involved in media literacy or student journalism

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Status: Adopted (non-binding resolution).
  • Introduced: February 24, 2025.
  • Adopted: February 24, 2025.
  • Effective date: Effective immediately upon adoption (as is typical for resolutions).
  • No fiscal impact or regulatory requirements are indicated, given the nature of a ceremonial/recognition resolution.

Sponsorship

  • Primary sponsor: Donna Lupardo.

Additional Context

  • This bill does not create new laws, duties, or funding obligations. Its primary effect is symbolic, signaling official recognition and encouraging communities to honor and support student journalism and press freedoms on the designated day.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary for a policy brief or a quick briefing slide, or add suggested talking points for educators and students.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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