Detroit City Wire

A legislative proposal by State Representative Rylee Linting has moved forward in the Michigan House as part of a broader bipartisan initiative aimed at enhancing school safety and supporting student mental health. The plan, which was advanced with strong support, is a response to the 2021 Oxford High School shooting and seeks to implement comprehensive measures across the state.

Rep. Linting, representing Grosse Ile Township, expressed optimism about the progress made. "Today was a pivotal step forward towards keeping Downriver kids safe at school while giving parents peace of mind," she stated. The proposed reforms include expanded mental health resources, improved building designs for safety, updated emergency drill procedures, and better reporting mechanisms for dangerous activities.

The bipartisan task force responsible for these proposals gathered input from various stakeholders, including parents, educators, mental health professionals, and law enforcement officers. "These plans looked at every side of this equation to support students and keep schools safe," Linting noted. She emphasized that feedback from teachers and mental health professionals was integral to crafting effective solutions.

House Bill 4226, sponsored by Linting, mandates additional active-shooter drills in schools. These drills will involve local law enforcement and occur between classes to enhance preparedness.

Other legislative measures passed by the House include requirements for regular updates to school districts' emergency response plans and standard safety training for school personnel. Additionally, confidential tips submitted through the OK2SAY system must be shared with local authorities within 24 hours. OK2SAY contact information will also be placed on student ID cards for easy access.

The legislation also calls for quarterly reports of OK2SAY tips to be submitted to the state's School Safety and Mental Health Commission. This is intended to assist the commission in its ongoing efforts to support local schools.

The package of bills—House Bills 4222-23, 4225-26, 4229, 4258-59, and 4315—will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.