Peach Tree Times

Today in Atlanta, House Speaker Jon Burns and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones praised the final approval of House Bill 268. This legislation introduces a comprehensive safety plan intended to respond to the tragic school shooting at Apalachee High School last September, which led to the loss of four Georgians.

Speaker Jon Burns emphasized the importance of securing a safe learning environment for all students across Georgia, "As legislators, we have no higher calling than to provide every student across our state with a safe and secure learning environment—and today’s passage of House Bill 268 affirms our commitment to doing just that." He added that the bill was the result of collaboration with various stakeholders, including educators and law enforcement agencies.

Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones also underscored the significance of the initiative, "The security and well-being of Georgia’s students and teachers is an initiative I am proud the Georgia General Assembly could agree on." As a parent himself, Jones stressed the importance of prioritizing students' safety over politics.

The bill establishes several key policies:

- Student records must be shared in a timely manner when a student transfers schools.

- A statewide alert system to monitor threats against schools is authorized.

- Schools must develop threat assessment plans.

- Public schools are required to implement a mobile panic alert system.

- Qualified student advocacy specialists' positions are to be created and funded.

- Suicide awareness and violence prevention training will be mandatory for students in sixth grade and above.

- High-needs schools must implement positive behavioral interventions and supports.

- The penalties for terroristic acts will be increased, and counseling is required for students making credible threats.

In conclusion, the bill aims to enhance the overall safety and mental health support of Georgia’s students and school personnel. For further details on House Bill 268 and its policies, individuals can refer to the official Georgia General Assembly website.