SENATE PROTECTS STUDENTS, PREVENTS GUNS IN SCHOOLS

Rejects measure that would have allowed teachers to carry guns in schools

AUGUSTA–Today, in a 19-14 vote, the Senate defeated a measure that would have allowed teachers to carry concealed handguns at schools.

“Our chief goal is to ensure that Maine schools are safe for our kids,” said Senator Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth. “We must not lose focus or be misguided by competing and conflicting agendas. Allowing staff to carry guns on such vague terms is a costly and radical distraction from the curriculum our schools are already struggling to afford and provide.”

Representatives from the Maine Education Association, the ACLU of Maine, the Maine School Boards Association, and the Maine Psychological Association testified against the bill during the public hearing.

During floor debate, Senator Stan Gerzofsky, D-Brunswick, noted that any community can have a School Resource Officer, a fully-trained law enforcement officer who has completed the 18 week course at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.

“We’ve given our communities the tools they need to protect our most valuable resources,” said Senator Gerzofsky. “There’s nothing new in this bill that will enhance safety, in fact, I believe it will do the opposite.”

The bill, LD 1429 An Act To Allow School Administrative Units To Establish Rules, Procedures and Guidelines for Properly Trained Staff To Carry a Concealed Handgun on School Property while Acting in Their Official Capacities, will now be sent to the House.

###