Students from Garden City’s Stratford Avenue School participated in New York State Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra’s “There Ought to Be a Law” contest, and fifth graders Patrick Burns, Julien Fitch and Alice Grant were recognized as finalists for their outstanding submissions. The contest drew 553 entries from elementary school students across Assemblyman Ra’s district, and Patrick, Julien and Alice were among the 20 finalists selected for this distinction. 

“My idea for a law is that stores that sell clothes, toys and other nonessential items close on Sundays so workers can rest, go to church and spend time with their families,” said Julien Fitch. “Not all stores should close. Pharmacies should stay open so people can get their medication, and supermarkets and restaurants could remain open on a reduced schedule. This law will help people stay healthy and give them extra time to do other things."

“My idea for a law is that all companies registered to do business in New York with more than 10,000 employees should be required to hire a certain percentage of workers with special needs, including autism, Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Tourette syndrome and dyslexia,” said Patrick Burns. “The jobs should match their strengths and abilities. For example, people with Down syndrome often have strong social skills, empathy and a great sense of humor, which could make them excellent greeters. I thought of this law because my cousin, Brayden, is 21 years old, and it can be difficult for people with disabilities to find jobs. This law would help create more opportunities, make it easier for people with disabilities to get hired and build confidence in themselves. The name for my law is Brayden's law.”

“I believe there should be a law preventing people from using electronic devices while riding a bike,” said Alice Grant. “Electronics can distract you up to the point where you are not even looking at the roads, cars or people around you. This puts not only the biker but also the driver and other people on the street in danger. Using two earbuds while riding can be dangerous as well because it may block important sounds such as car horns, truck engines, yells or even emergency vehicles. In addition, holding an electronic device on a bike increases the chance of dropping and damaging it, which can be expensive to repair. Help save bikers and drivers!”

Patrick, Julien and Alice were recognized at an awards ceremony on June 22, where each finalist received a citation honoring their achievement.