Rep. Elliott Engen's HF15 or "Shield Act" Heard in Committee
Saint Paul, MN –
Representative Elliott Engen’s House File 15, also known as the Shield Act, was heard in the Education Policy Committee on Wednesday, February 26th, marking an important step forward in efforts to enhance school safety across Minnesota.
The Shield Act is a comprehensive measure designed to prioritize the safety of students and staff by requiring all school districts to incorporate security measures into their long-term facilities maintenance plans. The bill also increases funding for safe school initiatives, establishes grants for school security systems, and appropriates additional resources to improve overall safety infrastructure.
"We have to keep our students and staff safe," said Representative Engen. "The Shield Act will provide critical measures to enhance security and protection in our schools, ensuring a safer learning environment for everyone."
With growing concerns over school safety, the bill aims to equip schools with the necessary tools and funding to prevent and respond to potential threats effectively. The Shield Act seeks to provide districts with the flexibility to address their specific security needs while maintaining a statewide commitment to student and staff protection.
HF 15 was passed out of committee and has now been referred to the Public Safety Committee.