Southampton - New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle stated that he will introduce a bill to amend the New York State Education Law to provide the children of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty with an annual award equal to the State University of New York undergraduate tuition for New York State residents, including the cost of room and board. Senator LaValle's bill will amend New York State Education Law that previously provided a $450 award in such cases.

"This show of financial support will in no way compensate for a family's loss," Senator LaValle said, "rather, it represents the appreciation, respect and support of a grateful citizenry."