Sex Abuse Prevention, Awareness Would Be Taught In N.J. Schools Under Proposed Bill

Students in New Jersey would be taught about the dangers of sexual abuse and learn prevention tips and awareness if a proposed bill is signed into law.

State Senator Anthony Bucco, R-Morris, has introduced Erin’s Law, which would require school districts to incorporate into their individual curriculum sexual abuse prevention and awareness education.

The law, currently enacted in 27 states and being considered in 16 others in addition to New Jersey, was named for Erin Merryn, who survived rape by an uncle from ages six to eight and incest by an older cousin from age 11 to 13, according to erinslaw.org.

“We teach our children not to talk to strangers, but for 93 percent of children who are sexually abused, the attacker is not a stranger – it’s a parent, a family friend, or someone else they trust,” Senator Bucco said in a statement. “We cannot allow children to feel ashamed and suffer in silence. Erin’s Law will empower kids to recognize the signs of abuse and speak out the moment an unsafe behavior occurs. I will continue to work with Erin, and the advocates fighting for victims in our community, until every child in every New Jersey classroom has access to this education.”

The bill (S-2145) would require all school districts to incorporate age-appropriate sexual abuse awareness and prevention education in grades preschool through 12 as part of Core Curriculum Content Standards, and would be taught in Health and Physical Education classes. Instruction will be provided by a school nurse who has completed professional development on sexual abuse and assault awareness prevention.

Pictured: Erin Merryn. Photo Courtesy Senator Anthony Bucco's Office.