Lower Bucks Today

Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Jared Moskowitz have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing school security across the United States. The Secure & Fortify Entrances and Rooms (SAFER) in Schools Act focuses on reinforcing both interior and exterior doors in educational institutions nationwide. This initiative seeks to provide long-term investments for critical security upgrades.

Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of safeguarding students, educators, and school communities during emergencies. "The bipartisan SAFER Schools Act puts the physical security of our educational institutions front and center by mandating and funding the reinforcement of doors in every primary and secondary school nationwide," he stated. He expressed gratitude towards Representative Moskowitz, Tony Montalto, and Stand with Parkland for their collaboration on this initiative.

Reflecting on past experiences, Congressman Jared Moskowitz recounted visiting Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School with Fitzpatrick. "What we saw was a horrific scene that shocks the conscience," he said, highlighting the need for continued efforts to protect children in schools. He noted that the SAFER Schools Act is a significant step toward implementing safety enhancements nationwide.

Tony Montalto, President of Stand with Parkland, praised the co-sponsorship by Representatives Fitzpatrick and Moskowitz. "This bill is a direct result of that experience," he said, referring to their visit to Parkland after the tragedy there. Montalto emphasized that this legislation aims to protect students from modern threats similar to how fire safety measures were implemented in schools during the 1950s.

The SAFER Schools Act proposes several measures to bolster school security:

- It instructs the CISA Director to form an advisory committee comprising law enforcement officers, safety experts, technological specialists, and school personnel.

- The committee will evaluate key aspects of door reinforcement and submit recommendations on requirements, standards, certification, training, among other areas.

- Based on these recommendations, a final rule will be issued mandating door modifications or installations in schools.

- An additional $100 million annually for ten years will be allocated through the Homeland Security Grant Program to support schools in complying with these requirements.