Requires kindergarten instruction for Rockland and Westchester counties for minors who are five years of age on or before December first.

Assembly Bill A00591 mandates that children who turn five years old on or before December 1st must attend kindergarten in Rockland and Westchester counties. However, parents can choose to delay their child's enrollment until the following September, and the requirement does not apply to children in private schools or those receiving homeschooling.

Supporters argue that early education is crucial for child development and that mandatory kindergarten ensures all children have access to foundational learning experiences. They believe this policy will lead to better educational outcomes and help close achievement gaps.

Critics contend that mandating kindergarten infringes on parental rights to decide when their child should start formal education. They also express concerns about the financial burden on school districts to accommodate increased enrollment and question whether the benefits justify the costs.