SC New York News

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) recently met with a group of student journalists from Corning-Painted Post High School in Albany. The students were advocating for the passage of the Student Journalist Free Speech Act (A.1345), a bill aimed at protecting student journalists' free speech at educational facilities.

Expressing his pride in the students, Palmesano said, "I cannot begin to emphasize enough just how proud I am of these incredible student journalists at Corning-Painted Post High School. This issue started with the student journalists at Corning-Painted Post back in 2017 and they have continued to work so very hard to advocate for this important issue." He commended their hard work, perseverance, and outreach, expressing confidence that their efforts will lead to the bill becoming law in New York state. Palmesano also thanked Superintendent Michelle Caufield for the school district's support of the students in their advocacy.

Highlighting the importance of a free press and free speech in a democracy, Palmesano stated, "If these students at Corning-Painted Post High School are the future of journalism, then I know we are in good hands."

The students, including Leila Lanovici, Adelaide Barlow, and Kate Shaddock, along with their journalism teacher and yearbook advisor Mike Simons, continue to champion the cause of student journalists' rights, with the support of their school district and lawmakers like Assemblyman Palmesano.