SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois House unanimously passed a bill Thursday to help first responders get inside schools faster during emergencies.
This photo provided by Metro Nashville Police, emergency personnel gather outside Antioch High School after a shooting incident on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 in Nashville, Tenn. (Metro Nashville Police via AP)
This plan could require the Illinois State Board of Education work with the State Fire Marshall, State Police, and Illinois Emergency Management Agency to develop clear threat assessment procedures and rapid entry response plans.
Sponsors said it is concerning there is no standardized procedure for schools to follow if an emergency occurs. This comes as several schools received shooting threats following the mass shooting at Apalachee High School that left four people dead.
"Additionally, it requires the State Board to provide school districts with guidance outlining what steps or considerations shall be included within the school district's threat assessment procedure," said Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin (D-Matteson).
The measure calls for emergency rules to be implemented based on procedures agreed on by state and local officials.
Senate Bill 2057 now heads to the Senate on concurrence due to an amendment. Senators unanimously supported the bill's original language.
"When we drop our kids off at school, we need to know that everything has been done to ensure their safety," said Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Tinley Park). "We must not cut corners when it comes to the safety of our children."
Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
