Legislative School Security Working Group Heralds Passage of Bill to Protect Students

HARTFORD – Christie Carpino (R-32), State Representatives JP Sredzinski (R-112), Carol Hall (R-59) and Dorinda Borer (D-115) put forth a legislative package as a result of the work of the legislature’s School Security Working Group. Last week, the bill was favorably acted upon by the House of Representatives.

“The conversation regarding school security continues to evolve and we must remain vigilant,” said Rep. Carpino. “Experts and community members across Connecticut shared their thoughts and experience with the working group to form these proposals. This legislation will go a long way in helping our students and educators have a safe learning environment.” Rep. Carpino served as the Vice Chair of the bipartisan working group that sought input from experts and community needs across Connecticut to identify issues and solutions.

House Bill 7291, An Act Concerning School Security, requires the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) to update school security and safety plan standards, simplify school security reporting requirements and infrastructure grant applications, and identify qualified school security consultants through an updated registry that is specific only to such qualified consultants.

“Many ideas came out of this group, including the physical security of the buildings, school safety personnel, and even social-emotional learning, among other instructional items. This is a great bill – it passed out of the Public Safety Committee unanimously.” said Rep. J.P. Sredzinski.     

“This particular bill directly addresses issues identified by local boards of education and school safety standards enforced by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. School safety and security is an ongoing issue that we cannot afford to lose sight of,” said Rep. Carol Hall.

“Our children spend over 1,000 hours a year in school – not one of those minutes should be spent in fear for their lives,” said Rep. Borer.

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