YORKVILLE – Yesterday, State Representative Jed Davis (R-Yorkville) introduced House Bill 1346, which aims to bolster school safety in Illinois by establishing the School Resource Officer (SRO) Grant Program. This legislation will provide critical funding to support the hiring of active or retired law enforcement officers as SROs in schools throughout the state.
“Every child deserves safe environments to grow and learn,” said Rep. Davis. “House Bill 1346 provides these environments by ensuring our schools have the resources for hiring trained law enforcement professionals. These professionals will help protect our classrooms, students, and teachers.”
Key Provisions of House Bill 1346:
- Creates the School Resource Officer Grant Program managed by the State Board of Education.
- Ensures districts and schools hiring SROs will be eligible for reimbursements of salaries and related costs through this program.
- Requires active or retired law enforcement officers serving as SROs to meet the certification requirements of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board.
“This bill will help schools prioritize safety while fostering supportive learning environments,” Davis added. “Educators and parents shouldn’t worry about whether their school can afford critical safety measures. This legislation alleviates any worry, providing a path forward to safer schools for every child in Illinois.”
Rep. Davis emphasized the importance of addressing safety proactively, highlighting how SROs serve not only as protectors but also as mentors who can build positive relationships with students.
This bill was produced in collaboration with Kristina McCloy, head of Concerned Parents Illinois, whose advocacy was instrumental in shaping House Bill 1346. Ms. McCloy said, “School safety is deeply personal to me. For years, I’ve been unwavering in my efforts to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of our children. While politicians and public figures enjoy robust security, our classrooms remain exposed and vulnerable. It’s time for meaningful actions addressing these disparities. I’m grateful to Representative Davis for championing this cause and including this critical measure in his Protecting Kids bill package. Together, we can ensure every child in Illinois experiences safe environments to grow and learn.”
House Bill 1346 now awaits further action in the Illinois House of Representatives. Rep. Davis urges bipartisan support for this commonsense solution toward enhancing school safety.
This bill is one of multiple bills in Rep. Davis’ Protecting Kids bill package.
For more information on this legislation or to express support, please contact Rep. Davis’ office at (331) 867-8200. For more information about Representative Davis, visit RepJedDavis.com.
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