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Legislation to reform school safety measures was introduced last week, officials said.
The legislation, the Measures for Safer School Districts Act, introduced by U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) would modernize the school safety infrastructure, strengthen emergency response systems, and ensure clear, immediate communication between schools, law enforcement and families. The legislation’s introduction comes on the anniversary of the school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.
“Our children should walk into school each day feeling safe, not scared. The bipartisan Measures for Safer School Districts (MSD) Act is a commitment to protecting our children with real, tangible action—strengthening security, enhancing emergency response, and ensuring parents are informed when it matters most,” Fitzpatrick said. “Safeguarding our children is not just a responsibility—it is our highest duty. We owe it to them, our educators, and communities to stand united in making their safety an unshakable priority. This is more than legislation; it is a call to action, a commitment to our kids, and a step towards a brighter, safer future.”
Officials said the legislation establishes a nationwide framework for school security focusing on standardizing emergency response and notification protocols, notifying parents immediately, and reinforcing school infrastructure for maximum protection. The legislation would also set aside $100 million in annual funding for school safety upgrades through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Leading School safety advocates, law enforcement officials and organizations representing the families of school shooting victims all endorse the legislation.
“Our heartfelt thanks to Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Jared Moskowitz for co-sponsoring the Measures for Safer School Districts Act (MSD Act). They both walked the bloodied halls of the Parkland school massacre with the victims’ families, and this bill is a direct result of that experience,” Tony Montalto, President of Stand with Parkland said. “We unfortunately know all too well, that your child’s safety at school, is no longer a given. No parent should ever be the last to know when a threat arises, or an incident occurs. Timely and clear communication is crucial. Additionally, this bill will help protect students and staff from the threats they face in 21st century schools just like the now unquestioned school fire safety efforts from 1950s did then.”