Halpin-Backed Bill Reinforcing School Security Procedures Now Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Schools will be better prepared to prevent violence under a new law from state Rep. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island, requiring schools to create and adopt their own threat assessment procedures.

“Ensuring the safety of our kids is my priority. Schools have to be prepared in case the worst happens and they’re confronted with violence,” Halpin. “The solution is careful, informed preparation; so, if there is danger, schools can keep people safe in time for law enforcement to respond.”

Halpin voted to pass House Bill 1561, which requires school districts to create threat assessment teams made up of teachers, school social workers, law enforcement members and other relevant officials. The teams will be tasked with putting together a comprehensive response plan in the case of on-campus violence. This legislation received strong backing from both sides of the aisle and is now law.

“Every kid deserves to grow up attending a school where they feel secure, and every parent deserves peace of mind regarding their kids’ safety,” Halpin said. “I want the people responsible for keeping my kids out of harm’s way to be absolutely ready for a serious problem. This legislation will help ensure that they are.”