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Recently, threats to the First Amendment have been more intense than ever. The federal government is attacking free speech in very public ways, trying to silence comedians, news outlets, journalists and ordinary individuals who have dared to criticize public figures and government policies. PEN America documented more than 10,000 book bans in public schools during the 2023-24 school year, the highest yet recorded. The American Library Association has likewise reported record levels of challenges and removals, including in districts across New York.

At a time when organized campaigns seek to narrow what children and families can read, New York has an opportunity to lead. We urge Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign the Freedom to Read Act (S.1099/A.7777) — and we encourage her to do........

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