$70 Million for School Safety Approved as Part of State Budget, Reed Says
HARRISBURG – Legislation to create a school safety grant program and a state “Safe2Say” anonymous reporting program has passed the House of Representatives, according to House Majority Leader Dave Reed (R-Indiana). The proposal is now under consideration in the Senate.
“Every school should be a safe haven,” Reed said. “The state is now providing an opportunity for each and every school district to receive funding to protect the schools.”
Recognizing each school’s needs are different, the funding will create a $60 million block grant program that school districts can apply for to ensure access to a variety of resources. The Office of Safe Schools will receive $10 million for its Safe Schools Initiative.
Block grant funding will be available for:
• School safety assessments.
• School resource officers.
• Metal detectors.
• Cameras.
• Facility upgrades and more.
A new committee within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will review incoming applications from each district. Every district with a valid application will receive at least $25,000.
The funds allocated this year must be awarded to all qualifying districts by Oct. 31, 2019.
“Safe2Say” will be a confidential, statewide tip line for students or teachers to report potentially dangerous or violent activities involving any school property or program.
Representative Dave Reed, Majority Leader
62nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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