Subject:
Extreme Heat in Schools
Message:
Dear Legislator,
As a constituent who cares deeply about the health and safety of students, I urge you to support legislation to establish a maximum temperature in school buildings and indoor school facilities. Despite the serious risk of exposure to extreme heat in schools ― especially at the beginning and end of the school year ― state law is silent on the issue of maximum school temperatures.
In classrooms, excessive heat often leads to a loss of concentration and exhaustion and can result in acute heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or elevated blood temperatures, which can cause irreparable organ damage or prove fatal if left unaddressed. These health risks are particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions ― all of whom can be found in public school buildings. Excessive temperatures create health and safety risks to students, faculty members and school employees, including cafeteria and kitchen workers.
To address this risk, I urge you to support S.3397 (Skoufis)/A.9011 (Eachus), which will establish a maximum temperature in school buildings and facilities and require schools to follow procedures when temperatures rise. Specifically, when temperatures in our schools reach between 82 degrees and 87 degrees, the school would be required to determine how to address high-heat conditions (e.g., provide water, air conditioning, close classroom shades, open windows, turn off lights, etc.). If the temperature reaches 88 degrees or greater in a classroom or support service area, then that space cannot be occupied.
Thank you for your consideration of this important school safety issue. I respectfully ask that you bring up this issue with your conference, and I would greatly appreciate a response to this email.
Sincerely,
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