The Active Assailant Training, Readiness and Response Act, introduced to the House by U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R-PA) last week, will seek to establish a Department of Education grant for active assailant situation training.
The grant would be used to improve security through university-based training. These universities would also serve as response hubs for schools, hospitals, and other institutions in their area of operation.
“One of the most important jobs of the federal government is ensuring the safety and security of all of our country’s citizens,” Marino said. “Despite efforts undertaken by Congress, it is clear that more work needs to be done in this area. My legislation will ensure that vulnerable institutions such as schools and hospitals have the resources they need to prepare for and respond to active assailant incidents.”
Marino said universities are specifically being targeted with this legislation due to their connected nature with other local institutions. To that end, recipients of the grant would have to define the region they serve clearly. They would also be responsible for consultation on and preparation for active assailant situations, the techniques for responding to them, and assistance for those affected by such crises afterward.