(Albany, New York) New York State’s Dignity For All Students bill has been recalled by its sponsor and amended, making it stronger and addressing concerns raised by the State Education Department.

Democratic Assembly Member Daniel O’Donnell’s amendments make explicit that the legislation does not limit the existence of single-gender sports teams and schools, and ensures that district reporting requirements are neither duplicative nor burdensome, his office said Wednesday.

O’Donnell’s anti-bullying and anti-discrimination legislation has passed the Assembly seven times since 2002 with overwhelming bipartisan support.

Each time it has been stonewalled in the Republican-controlled Senate over the inclusion of sexual identity.

A spokesperson said that O’Donnell actively sought and considered the input of the State Education Department in formulating the amendments. By working closely with department staff, the legislation can be more easily implemented and will more likely accomplish its intended effect, O’Donnell’s office said in a statement.

“The Dignity For All Students Act is stronger than ever. The bill is now the most solidly written, most vetted anti-bullying bill in Albany,” said the openly gay O’Donnell.

“If the Senate is serious about protecting the well-being and safety of New York’s students, and not just making an election-year play, they will immediately introduce and pass this version of the legislation.”

The Dignity For All Students Act would afford all persons in public schools an environment free of harassment and discrimination based on actual or perceived race, national origin, ethnic group, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex. 

The bill, which has consistently passed the Assembly with broad bipartisan support, has been endorsed by Governor Paterson, and yet consistently meets roadblocks in the Senate.