Senator Nikki Torres has introduced two critical pieces of legislation to bolster the safety and security of K-12 schools across Washington State. These measures reflect the Senator’s commitment to providing students, educators, and parents with safer learning environments through innovative and practical solutions.
The first bill, Senate Bill 5003, establishes the School Security and Preparedness Infrastructure Grant Program. This program, administered by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, will offer competitive grants to public school districts for projects that enhance the physical security of school facilities. Eligible initiatives include upgrades such as improved entrance and door security, perimeter fencing, infrastructure to support rapid law enforcement response, and other safety-related construction projects. Each district may receive up to $2 million per biennium, with awards prioritizing schools demonstrating the greatest security needs.
“Every child deserves to feel safe at school,” said Torres, R-Pasco. “This grant program ensures that our schools have access to the resources they need to proactively address security vulnerabilities and protect our students.”
The second bill, Senate Bill 5004, enhances Emergency Response Systems in Public Schools, emphasizing the use of modern technology to expedite law enforcement responses during emergencies. The legislation mandates collaboration between school districts and local law enforcement to develop systems incorporating panic buttons, live video and audio feeds, remote-controlled door access, and interactive two-way communication capabilities.
Schools are required to report their progress on these systems to the Superintendent’s Office by October 1, 2025, with a comprehensive report to the legislature by December 1, 2025.
“Emergencies demand swift and coordinated action,” Torres emphasized. “By integrating cutting-edge technology into our emergency response systems, we can significantly reduce response times and ensure that help arrives when it’s needed most.”