Coleman Measure on School Weapon Incidents Headed to Governor

HARRISBURG - After overwhelming bipartisan support from the state General Assembly, Sen. Jarrett Coleman's (R-16) measure aimed at increasing reporting requirements regarding weapon incidents in Pennsylvania schools is on track to becoming law.

"This legislation stems from an incident in the Parkland School District when parents learned about a weapon incident from police reports and the local news. I was shocked to learn that the district didn't have to notify them immediately. Parents send their children to school with the expectation for them to receive a quality education in a safe environment, and they deserve to know what's happening," said Coleman.

Senate Bill 246 would require parents and school employees to be notified by their school district of any weapon possession incidents occurring on school property. This applies to public, nonpublic and private schools.

Under current law, school districts are not required to inform parents or guardians about incidents when a weapon is brought onto school grounds or to related activities.

The legislation now awaits the governor's signature.

CONTACT: Leo Knepper