New York, NY (May 20, 2026)

New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin is preparing a revised version of a school protest safety bill after Mayor Zohran Mamdani vetoed an earlier measure that would have required the NYPD to create security plans around educational facilities during demonstrations.

The new legislation is expected to narrow the scope of the proposal by focusing on early childhood centers and most K-12 schools. Colleges, universities, libraries, and teaching hospitals would be excluded, addressing one of the central concerns raised by opponents who argued that the original bill was too broad and could interfere with protected protest activity.

The earlier measure was advanced as part of the City Council’s response to rising antisemitism and concerns over demonstrations near schools. Supporters said students and families should be able to enter school buildings safely without intimidation or harassment. Critics warned that the bill could give police too much authority over protests and restrict lawful speech.

Mamdani vetoed the school-focused bill last month, citing constitutional concerns and the need to protect the right to protest. The veto marked a significant clash between City Hall and the Council over how to balance public safety, civil rights, and the city’s response to hate-driven incidents.

Menin has said the Council had enough support to attempt an override, but she is instead moving forward with an amended bill designed to draw broader backing and avoid another veto fight. The revised version is expected to receive a hearing soon.

A separate bill requiring protest safety planning around houses of worship already passed the City Council with a veto-proof majority. That measure moved forward amid concerns from Jewish leaders and other faith communities about protests near synagogues and religious institutions.