South Michigan News

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz's initiative to bolster security and mental health measures in Michigan schools has progressed through the House with significant bipartisan backing. The plan, a product of a bipartisan task force formed after the 2021 Oxford High School shooting, is encapsulated in several House Bills: 4222-4223, 4225-4226, 4229, 4258-4259, and 4315. It integrates insights from educators, parents, mental health experts, and law enforcement to enhance statewide coordination for school safety and student mental well-being.

Schmaltz emphasized the importance of ensuring that schools are safe environments where children can thrive. "Every morning, families across Michigan send their kids off to school. They trust that when that bell rings, their children will be walking into a safe and supportive place — one where they can learn, grow, and thrive," she stated. She added that the plan leverages expertise from education and public safety sectors to maintain secure learning spaces.

A key component of Schmaltz's proposal is House Bill 4222 which mandates schools to review and update their safety plans triennially. Schools would also be required to establish crisis teams comprising assistant principals, safety officers, and other relevant personnel. "It may sound simple, but it’s vital," Schmaltz remarked about the need for regular reviews due to evolving threats and technologies.

The comprehensive plan also aims to expand OK2SAY—Michigan's confidential tip line for reporting threats or crises related to schools—by making its contact information readily available on student ID cards. Reports received would be forwarded to ISD coordinators and local law enforcement while being reviewed quarterly by the School Safety and Mental Health Commission.

Further enhancements include mandating uniform training provided by Michigan State Police for school resource officers and staff on safety protocols. The plan seeks standardized definitions for terms like lockdowns across the state to improve communication during emergencies. Additionally, it proposes an extra active-shooter drill annually with at least one involving local law enforcement participation.

These measures now await further deliberation in the Senate.