Parents, Educators, Emergency Preparedness Groups Release Statement on House Passage of “STOP School Violence Act of 2018”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – MARCH 14, 2018 – A diverse group of parents, educators, emergency preparedness and industry groups released the following statement on this week’s passage of H.R. 4909, the “STOP School Violence Act of 2018,” by the U.S. House of Representatives:

“We applaud Congress’ efforts to address the important issue of school and student safety. The House’s passage of the ‘STOP School Violence Act’ is one of many steps to fund school security improvements and invest in early intervention and prevention programs to stop school violence before it happens.

“The bill’s passage is encouraging and we are optimistic it will create the momentum and political urgency to deliver a final bill to President Trump.

“We urge the Senate to move swiftly and pass its version of legislation, S. 2495, to clear the way for enactment of a final bill. School districts and states should have maximum flexibility to meet the most critical needs of their schools including facility security. House and Senate leaders should work to achieve an equitable grant distribution that ensures schools can choose options under the bill that meet local needs, and limited funds first go to public schools.

“Educators and communities across the country are moving forward to address security deficiencies in their schools. Funding from Congress will help close those gaps faster.”

Supporters:

Safe and Sound Schools, National School Boards Association (NSBA), National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO), National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM), National Council on School Facilities (NCSF), Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS), International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA), Secure Schools Alliance (the Alliance), Security Industry Association (SIA), National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA), DHI Door Security + Safety Professionals (DHI), Door Safety and Security Foundation (DSSF), 21st Century School Fund (21CSF)

About the Security Industry Association

The Security Industry Association (SIA) (www.securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with more than 800 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels; creating open industry standards that enable integration; advancing industry professionalism through education and training; opening global market opportunities; and collaboration with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA Government Summit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground®, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.