Millett prioritization of funding for security upgrades in schools now law

A bill by Sen. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, prioritizing funding for essential upgrades to school security systems through Maine’s School Revolving Renovation Fund became law on April 15.

LD 1858 “An Act To Include Security Installations and Upgrades in Maine’s School Revolving Renovation Fund” clarifies that “safety,” which is already a “priority one” repair, explicitly includes “installations or improvements necessary to increase school facility security.”

“Ensuring our children’s health and safety at school is one of my highest priorities as a State Senator,” said Sen. Millett. “I’m glad that nearly everyone in Augusta could come to agreement on LD 1858 so we’re clear that security upgrades are indeed among the safety improvements that receive top priority in the School Revolving Renovation Fund.”

Only two House members voted against the bill and it passed unanimously in the Senate.

When bills are passed out of the legislature and sent to the governor, he has the option of signing them into law, vetoing them, or letting them become law without his signature. The governor allowed LD 1858 to become law without his signature.

Non-emergency laws, of which this is one, passed in the regular legislative session this year will be effective law 90 days after the Maine Legislature adjourns sine die. Statutory adjournment is April 18, though the session may be extended several days beyond that date.