Jun. 14, 2016
HARRISBURG – A bill intended to increase safety measures in Pennsylvania’s schools passed the House on Monday, June 13, and now moves to the Senate, said Rep. Craig Staats (R-Bucks).
The bill, co-authored by Staats, Rep. Gary Day (R-Berks/Lehigh) and Rep. Sid Kavulich (D-Lackawanna), would require public schools to complete one school security drill annually.
To ensure that schools are not burdened by an additional mandate, schools would be permitted to perform the safety and security drill in place of a fire drill, which current law already requires schools to perform monthly. Schools are also encouraged to adapt the security drill to a variety of different threats to ensure that students and faculty are prepared for several scenarios.
“I am encouraged by the swift movement of this bill through the legislative process. Recent events have reiterated the importance of preparation when it comes to dangerous situations relating to safety and security. I am hopeful that the Senate will pass this bill and it will soon be signed by the governor,” said Staats.
The bill was passed unanimously by the House and now moves to the Senate for a vote.
Representative Craig Staats
145th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Morgan Dux
717.260.6695
mdux@pahousegop.com
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