Texas House Advances School Security Bill After Anniversary of Shooting

Texas House Advances School Security Bill After Anniversary of Shooting

Texas lawmakers are working toward passing new measures to increase campus security a year after a mass shooting at Santa Fe High School left 10 dead and 13 injured.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • May 23, 2019

The Texas House on Tuesday tentatively approved a Senate measure calling for schools to implement several new safety and security protocols, including the allocation of funds for increased security, the development of campus emergency plans and training for active shooter and emergency response.

The move is the first major action by state legislators since the May 2018 shooting at Santa Fe High School, in which 10 people were killed and 13 were injured. The proposed changes include measures proposed by Gov. Greg Abbott shortly after the Santa Fe mass shooting.

Senate Bill 11 requires each school district in the state to create a school safety and security team including local police, parents and school leaders. All teachers, including substitute teachers, will be required to undergo safety training and have access to a device for contacting first responders.

The bill establishes a statewide building standard for schools that prioritizes safety, and requires districts to notify parents and guardians when a threat is received. It also aims to add more mental health counselors to schools.

The House has to take an additional vote on the bill, and it was amended by Representatives, so it will have to be sent back to the Senate.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

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