Assemblyman Montesano: No Parent Should Have to Worry About Seeing Their Child Again When Putting Them on the School Bus
Long Island, NY - March 5, 2018 - In response to a recent tragedy, Assemblyman Michael Montesano (R,C,Ref-Glen Head) and his colleagues in the New York State Assembly have asked Gov. Cuomo to make procedures and protocols in schools stronger through a Temporary Commission on School Safety and Security. This Commission would be comprised of a variety of representatives tasked with creating standards for schools across New York State and pinpointing potential funding options to keep security at schools at an appropriate standard.
“No parent should have to worry if they will see their child again when putting them on the school bus in the morning,” said Montesano. “As a legislator, former police officer, father and grandfather, I know the safety of our children should always be a top priority and we should be working together to protect them, especially in a place which is supposed to help them grow and learn as individuals. There are simple things which can be done to improve security in our schools and decrease the chances of another attack on innocent and bright young lives. Installing metal detectors, hiring more mental health counselors, limiting entry into school buildings to one secure location and having trained law-enforcement officers are just a few measures we can take to improve our children’s safety. My colleagues and I hope the governor will consider our proposal for the Commission and create it before any more families lose their children to such a violent and hateful act.”
Representatives on the Commission would include local Police Benevolent Associations, the United Federation of Teachers, Office of Court Administration, NYSUT, Legislature, State Sheriffs’ Association, New York State School Boards Association, Executive, and the Division of Criminal Justice Services. Funding would also be included in the 2018-2019 State Budget.