Delaware legislators consider new school safety bill

DELAWARE – A new bill in Delaware would change the process that schools follow in order to comply with state safety regulations.

The new legislation follows a bill passed in 2018 that requires new schools, and those undergoing major renovation, to install “ballistic resistant glass” and other materials in certain areas of the school. The bill lead to budget issues in some cases, due to complications with the review process with the Department of Homeland Security. Senate Bill 279 would have the DHS review earlier in the process, so schools get an earlier and better idea of the funds needed for construction.

“Schools were finding that they would have to spend a lot of money, significant funds six figures to rip out door frames, dry walls, things of that nature. It added a lot of expense, but provided minimal, if any, improved safety,” said Sen. Jack Walsh, the primary sponsor of the bill.

Sen. Walsh said the bill is a commonsense measure that has bipartisan support.

Senate Bill 279 is currently out of committee and ready for consideration on the Senate floor.