On September 17 the House of Representatives passed a bill that would allow more funds to flow to low-income schools to improve school safety.

The School Safety Enhancements Act (H.R. 2352) would allow more low-income schools to participate in the Secure Our Schools (SOS) program by lowering the local matching grant requirement to 20%, and increasing the federal share to a maximum of 80%. The bill would also authorize $50 million annually for SOS grants. In addition, the bill would add to the list of allowable uses of grant funds by including a hotline for students and others to report dangerous incidents. Currently funds may be used to help schools pay for metal detectors, lighting, locks, security assessments, training for administrators, students, and teachers, coordination with law enforcement, and other measures designed to improve school safety.

For more information and to apply for SOS grants, visit http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=240.

“Whether it is fighting terrorism or working to keep our schools free of violence, I have always believed that the government's first responsibility is to protect the people. Our government must help to ensure that our children are safe and protected from violence of any kind in school. I am proud to report that this Congress has taken another step to ensure a safe learning environment for our children by passing my School Safety Enhancements Act,” said Rep. Steven Rothman (D-NJ), the bill’s sponsor.

The bill now goes to the Senate where it awaits consideration. Information on when the bill might be voted on is not yet available.

Interested in school safety issues? Visit www.principals.org/safety for a host of resources on school climate, crisis prevention and management, harassment and bullying prevention, and substance and drug abuse prevention.