Safe Schools Act Passes in State Senate

The state Senate has passed legislation that will require Georgia public schools to conduct active-shooter drills by Oct. 1 of each year.

Gov. Brian Kemp’s “Safe Schools Act” also creates a school safety and anti-gang certification for teachers and other school employees who complete a school safety and gang-deterrence training program.

The bill passed Monday in the Senate.

Sen. Mike Hodges, R-Brunswick, the bill’s Senate sponsor said there’s no greater priority than keeping children, teachers, and personnel safe.

Though the bill ultimately passed nearly unanimously, it drew criticism from Democrats.

Sen. Elena Parent, D-Atlanta said the bill highlights the State’s failure year after year to make meaningful changes to address the gun violence that is plaguing our schools, our communities, our streets, and our homes.

In recent months, the Franklin County Charter System has instituted several initiatives aimed at keeping students safe in the classroom.

The latest was the decision by the Board of Education and Administration to use $200,000 in SPLOST monies to purchase a weapons detection system for all of the schools.

Acting School Superintendent Chuck Colquitt said the detection system is necessary.

And the Lavonia Police Department routinely holds an active shooter training session at Lavonia Elementary School in the summer months.

Most recently, a multi-agency active shooter and incident training seminar was held at the Carnesville Fire Department.

Attendees also included school personnel from Franklin and surrounding counties.

The bill now moves to the governor’s desk for his signature.