SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Senate Education Committee unanimously approved a plan Tuesday to help schools alert first responders to emergencies faster.

"As a dad, school safety isn't abstract to me, it's personal," said Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Schools should have reliable, straightforward tools that help protect our kids and give staff a direct line to law enforcement and emergency services." 

This bill requires public and private schools to consider using a mobile panic alert system for emergency and crisis response. Sponsors said the Illinois State Police will work with the State Board of Education and Emergency Management Agency to develop rules for the panic alert system.

"We are moving to limit the use of cell phones in schools," said Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Crest Hill). "I think this is a measure to help schools and districts consider ways that parents can feel safe to have their kids in school."

House Bill 5107 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. It received unanimous support in the House last month. 

"Alyssa's Law is about ensuring that every classroom has a direct and immediate connection to first responders during an emergency," said Make Our Schools Safe CEO Lori Alhadeff. "After losing my daughter Alyssa in the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, I made it my mission to close the communication gaps that cost precious time." 

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