Assemblywoman Amy Paulin Kicks off Contest for Middle School Students: 'There Ought to Be a Law'

By Lisa Hofflich, Community Liaison for Assemblywoman Paulin
Jan. 13, 2016: Assemblywoman Amy Paulin kicked off a contest, open to all middle school students in grades 6 to 8 in the 88th Assembly District, titled "There Ought to Be a Law."
This contest asks students to identify a problem that has an impact on New Yorkers that needs a legislative solution by creation of a new law. The first-place winner will have the prize of knowing that his or her idea has a chance to become a law that has an impact on over 19 million New Yorkers. A second-place winner and third-place winner will also be chosen to receive a citation from the New York State Assembly.
The first-place contest winner will have the opportunity to join Assemblywoman Paulin at the state capitol, where the winner, along with a description of his or her proposed law, will receive recognition by members of the assembly on the assembly floor.
Students are encouraged to learn about their state government and the legislative process and have their voices heard at the state capitol! Middle school principals, teachers, and staff can contact the district office for more information by calling 914-723-1115 or by emailing
How does the contest work?
Students interested in entering the contest will write an essay (750 words maximum) detailing their proposed idea for a law.
Here are some things to consider about your proposed bill idea:
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What is the problem that needs a legislative solution?
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What is your solution? Be as detailed as possible.
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What is the background for this problem? (Are there any statistics, reports, historical information, or even your own personal stories that you could use to back up the need for a legislative proposal?)
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Are there any financial impacts? If so, how much money do you think it would cost?
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Who do you think would support this bill?
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Who do you think would oppose this bill?
The contest is open to all middle school students who live in the 88th Assembly District. This covers the following municipalities: Scarsdale, Eastchester, Tuckahoe, Bronxville, Pelham, and parts of New Rochelle and White Plains.
How to submit your entry?
Email the essay on your proposed law to
What is the contest timeline?
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February 29: All contest submissions are due by midnight on February 29, 2016.
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April 1: The first-, second-, and third-place winners will be notified by telephone and email.
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Mid-April to Early June: The first-place contest winner will be able to travel to Albany to join Assemblywoman Paulin in the state capitol before the end of the legislative session. The exact date and time will depend on the assemblywoman's meeting schedule.
If you have any questions, please contact Assemblywoman Paulin's district office at 914-723-1115.
Pictured here: Amy Paulin at an education conference committee meeting.
Photo courtesy office of Amy Paulin








