Gov. Cuomo launches red flag law education program for teachers, parents

Gov. Andrew Cuomo launched a statewide education program designed to show educators and parents how to use the red flag law.

The red flag law allows judges to confiscate firearms from anyone deemed a threat to themselves or others as a way of preventing school shootings.

Gov. Cuomo says, "The red flag law is a great tool, but you need to know how to use the tool. Everyone needs to be on the same page."

The law allows a family member, school official or member of law enforcement to obtain a court order, known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order, to remove and keep guns away from individuals who pose a serious risk of harm to themselves or others.

Among those at the governor's red flag law conference was Linda Beigel Schulman of Dix Hills. Her son Scott Biegel was one of 17 people killed in the Parkland, Florida school shooting last year.

"We all know a good law only works if it's properly implemented, and that's what we're here to do today," Biegel says.

Expert panelists gathered at Farmingdale State College to explain the warning signs of an individual that may pose a threat to themselves or others.
The governor also launched a call center and a new website offering information and links to step-by-step directions about how to apply for a protection order.
Educators who attended the conference say the information will help lives.

Glen Cove High School Principal Antonio Santana says, "I think the state is making a step in the right direction in establishing some preventative measures to diminish or extinguish the probability of a tragic event happening in one of our schools.
Two more red flag law conferences are scheduled to be held later this fall in Manhattan and Albany.