River Bend Times

U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa's 1st District has reintroduced the "Securing Our Schools Act." This legislation aims to clarify that states have the flexibility to utilize unused State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for school security measures.

In a statement, Miller-Meeks emphasized the importance of providing a safe and secure environment for every child to learn and grow. She stated, "The Securing Our Schools Act will allow states to utilize unused funds to invest in security measures on campus, as well as hire and train more school resource officers. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this legislation and ensure that our children and teachers can remain focused on learning while feeling safe each day in the classroom."

The legislation defines school security measures to include various strategies and programs aimed at preventing violence. These measures may involve the use of appropriate technologies such as metal detectors, emergency notification and response systems, and the development of anonymous reporting systems for threats of school violence.

Additionally, the legislation highlights the importance of training to prevent student violence against others and self. This includes training for local law enforcement officers, school personnel, and students themselves. The bill also emphasizes the need for the development and operation of school threat assessment and intervention teams, as well as specialized training for school officials in responding to mental health crises.

The Securing Our Schools Act also addresses the importance of coordination with local law enforcement agencies. It emphasizes the need for security assessments, training of personnel and students, and the acquisition and installation of technology for expedited notification of local law enforcement during emergencies.

Furthermore, the legislation proposes physical measures to enhance campus security. This includes reinforcing or replacing classroom doors, locks, or window panels, constructing entry control measures to create a single point of entry to the campus, and clearing exterior spaces of foliage or structures that could conceal illicit activity or aid an intruder.

One of the notable provisions of the bill is the hiring and payment of qualified individuals, such as retired law enforcement officers or military veterans, to serve as armed school resource officers.

The reintroduction of the Securing Our Schools Act by Representative Miller-Meeks seeks to prioritize the safety and security of students and teachers. By clarifying that unused State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds can be utilized for school security measures, this legislation aims to provide states with the necessary flexibility to invest in the necessary resources to create a secure learning environment.

As this legislation moves forward, it is hoped that lawmakers will recognize the importance of supporting the Securing Our Schools Act and ensuring the safety and well-being of our children in their educational settings.