NY S06508

Changes education law Section 804 from mandatory ("shall") to discretionary language ("are encouraged to") regarding health education instruction in schools

Removes specific requirements for instruction on alcohol, drugs, tobacco abuse, and cancer prevention/detection from the statute

Replaces removed language with broader requirement for instruction in "understandings, attitudes" related to health and mental health education

Allows flexibility for the Commissioner of Education and local school districts to develop curriculum that reflects current learning standards and developing technology

Emphasizes teaching health and mental health with focus on prevention, cure, and control without stigma or emotional harm