House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

NEW!

Subscribe to receive notifications of new Co-Sponsorship Memos circulated

By Member | By Date | Keyword Search

House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	February 14, 2017 12:36 PM
From:	Representative Carol Hill-Evans
To:	All House members
Subject:	Legislation providing for Training, Licensing, and Certification Requirements for School Security Officers

In the near future, I intend to reintroduce legislation from last session (House Bill 622) that would amend the Public School Code of 1949 to create training, licensing, and certification requirements for school security officers. Under the provisions of this act, education and training would be required within one year of employment for all school security officers. Emphasis would be placed on professionalism, basic first aid and CPR, and working cooperatively with state and local police agencies. A minimum 60 hours of training would be necessary for certification and all school security officers would be required to complete a 20 hour recertification course each year. The school district would pay for the initial certification of school security officers and for recertification. The certification and recertification requirements would further ensure that all school security officers are properly trained and prepared for emergency situations. Currently, school security officers and security guards employed by school districts across the Commonwealth are responsible for securing school buildings and property, and ensuring the safety of students and staff. It is important to note that school security officers and security guards are different than school police officers, which are already included under the Public School Code of 1949. While school police officers may have the authority to arrest or detain students, issue a summary citation and enforce good order on school grounds, the role of school security officers is to help to create a safe learning environment by ensuring the safety of school grounds, students, and staff. This legislation would strengthen the safety of our public schools by ensuring that all security officers and guards are prepared for any and all situations that may arise. Please join me in supporting this important legislation.

---