Starting September 1, New York public schools must follow a new law limiting classroom temperatures to 88 degrees, with 82 degrees considered an “extreme heat condition,” prompting required action from school leaders.
Districts must develop heat response plans, though the law doesn’t mandate air conditioning or HVAC upgrades. That’s raising concerns among administrators, especially in older buildings without cooling systems. With the state budget due soon, some officials say funding support remains uncertain.
Lawmakers suggest basic steps like pulling shades or opening windows, while critics argue the law reduces local flexibility and could lead to learning disruptions if compliance proves difficult.
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