Council Member Proposes School Security Bill to Enhance Non-Public School Safety

During a recent New York City Council public meeting, members discussed legislation intended to improve security measures for non-public schools, enhancing student safety across the city. Council Member Justin Brandon presented Bill 532A, which aims to expand a reimbursement program established in 2016, allowing non-public schools to seek financial assistance for employing security guards.

Brandon emphasized that ensuring safety in schools is essential and that any measures to enhance student security should be a priority. He noted the existing program only allowed non-public schools with at least 300 students to receive reimbursement for security services. The newly proposed bill would lower this threshold to 150 students, allowing smaller non-public schools to also benefit from the program. This adjustment, according to Brandon, is a significant step toward providing safety for all students regardless of their school type and ensuring that parents feel confident sending their children to school in a secure environment.

He acknowledged that the initiative reflects a long-standing commitment to uphold safety standards for all students and enhances the community’s ability to protect its children. Brandon thanked the co-sponsors of the bill and described the expansion as a straightforward decision for the council to support. (Source: https://youtu.be/znM5sCs51y0&t=3819)