WC Minnesota News

House Republicans in Minnesota have presented a new school safety agenda aimed at improving security and student well-being across the state. The plan was announced in Saint Paul, with legislators outlining several proposals to address concerns about violence and mental health in schools.

Rep. Mary Franson spoke about the goals of the agenda, stating, “Parents should not have to fear for their children’s safety when they go to school. This agenda focuses on giving every student a secure learning environment while making sure dangerous criminals face real consequences. Our children deserve nothing less.At the same time, we must address laws that interfere with parents’ rights, including the transgender refuge state law, and make sure that gender confused children receive the care and support they actually need.”

The agenda features measures such as expanding school safety funding to include non-public schools and introducing grants like those proposed under the SHIELD Act (HF 15). It also suggests giving schools greater flexibility in how they use funds for safety improvements. Another provision would make School Resource Officers available to every school.

Other aspects of the plan include efforts to repeal or amend restrictions on doctors' ability to exercise their medical judgment and increasing resources for mental health treatment beds.