Holland Reporter

A series of bills aimed at enhancing safety standards in Michigan schools, introduced partly by state Representative Nancy DeBoer, have been signed into law. The legislation emerged from a bipartisan task force established in 2021 by former Speaker Jason Wentworth following the Oxford school tragedy. This task force included four Republicans and four Democrats who collaborated to devise strategies for preventing violence against students and teachers.

Representative DeBoer stated, “While I wasn’t a part of compiling the report, I have reviewed it extensively and it’s clear that there are many common-sense changes that must be put into place to protect our young people at school.” She emphasized her commitment as both a mother and former educator to implement these necessary changes.

The task force's final report was based on extensive discussions with various stakeholders including students, parents, educators, law enforcement officials, and behavioral health professionals. These discussions provided the foundation for the detailed recommendations now enacted into law.

The newly signed bipartisan policies aim to address existing gaps in school safety protocols. A key element of DeBoer's plan is the establishment of the School Safety and Mental Health Commission. She remarked, “The police are among our greatest allies when it comes to school safety,” highlighting their crucial role in enhancing security measures within educational institutions.

These legislative measures are now designated as Public Acts 263, 264, 270, 271, and 272 of 2024.