Crespo Measure Enhancing School Safety Heads to Governor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – School districts will better protect children from gun violence under legislation passed by state Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, is now awaiting approval by the governor.  

“Having the confidence of a safe learning environment is critical to students’ success,” Crespo said. “This legislation is a proactive measure that ensures school districts are working with local law enforcement and mental health professionals to ensure they are prepared to protect our children when their safety is at risk.”

Crespo worked with the Illinois Education Association to pass House Bill 1561, which will require each school district to develop a threat assessment team and protocol as part of a violence prevention strategy. Under Crespo’s legislation, local school boards will adopt the protocols put together by team of stakeholders that will include parents, students, teachers, mental health professionals and local law enforcement. Once the protocol is adopted, school districts are required to make the assessment protocol public.

“There is nothing more important than the safety of our students and our staff in school buildings in Illinois,” Kathi Griffin, president of the Illinois Education Association said.