SAINT PAUL, Minn. – This session, the Minnesota Legislature included $7 million in the final Public Safety Conference Committee Report for the digital geographic information system (GIS) mapping of school facilities. By providing first responders with up-to-date, precise, and legible maps of often complex school facilities, this innovative legislation will shave precious seconds off emergency response times. Whether it be something more common, like a medical emergency, or a less frequent but more lethal event, Minnesota’s school facilities are better protected than ever before. Well over one hundred schools have already been mapped, meaning Minnesota’s school facilities are safer heading into the 24-25 school year.
“This legislation taking effect is an important step forward as we work to guarantee the safety of our students and school employees,” said Rep. Matt Norris (DFL - Blaine), author of the bipartisan legislation. “By embracing cutting-edge legislation like this, we are creating safer environments so our students can focus less on emergencies, and more on learning.”
The funds use an open RFP process through local Public Safety Answering Point and/or Emergency Communications Centers located throughout the state.
“In order to improve safety outcomes for our students, we must utilize every tool available to us. That’s why this funding is so important; it is part of a holistic approach to significantly improve the safety of our schools,” said Rep. Kelly Moller (DFL - Shoreview), Chair of the House Public Safety Committee. “I’m happy to see that this investment is already having a meaningful impact on communities across Minnesota.”
“Our students deserve to be safe in our classrooms and communities,” said Rep. Cheryl Youakim (DFL - Hopkins), chair of the House Education Finance Committee. “Implementing a statewide GIS mapping system, paired with stronger gun violence prevention laws, investments in mental health supports, and increased funding for school social workers, psychologists, and counselors will keep more Minnesota kids safe in school.”
"Indoor maps for schools are an invaluable tool that transforms safety protocols and emergency responses,” said GeoComm, a Minnesota company which performs such GIS mapping. “By providing a clear, detailed view of every hallway and room, these maps ensure that first responders can navigate swiftly and accurately, ultimately saving lives when every second counts."
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