Rutigliano Stands with School Resource Officers

TRUMBULL- Standing up for Trumbull community and the safety of the town’s students, State Rep. Dave Rutigliano (R-123) voiced his strong support for School Resource Officers (SRO) and opposition to any legislative proposal which would lead to the elimination of this very successful program.  

In an Education Committee public hearing a proposal, HB-6535, An Act Concerning Issues Related to School Security, has a provision in the language that would examine the employment and role of school resource officers in public schools. 

Rutigliano wanted to remind Trumbull residents that Trumbull’s SRO program was implemented in a bi-partisan manner with input of town residents. 

“I am opposed to any proposal on SROs which would take away Trumbull’s ability to make its own decisions on school security and what is best for Trumbull students. There can be no ‘one-size fits all’ on this issue. Without question SROs work in Trumbull,” said Rep. Rutigliano. “School Resource Officers are trusted, highly-valued members of our school community. They are seen by students and staff as positive role models who help with day-to-day administration of school safety procedures and a resource that students can turn to if they are in need of help.  SROs are available during regular school hours, after school, and at off-campus school activities they can act as the eyes and ears in the school hallways.”     

Over the last year, there has been a concerted effort to kick SROs out of our schools, potentially compromising our children’s safety. One 2020 effort saw U.S. Senator Christopher Murphy proposing federal legislation to eliminate School Resource Officers (SRO) and funding for the program in schools across the country.    

Senator Gary Winfield of New Haven has proposed SB-447, An Act Concerning the Phase-Out of the Use of School Resource Officers. which calls for the phase-out SROs in our state’s public schools. 

If any resident would like to testify or submit testimony on this or any subject please contact Rep. Rutigliano’s office at the State Capitol in Hartford so we may help and facilitate the submission, email: Dave.Rutigliano@cga.ct.gov.