Senate Passes Reynolds, Patton Bill Strengthening School Safety Measures

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 290 this week, sponsored by State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) and State Senator Tom Patton (R-Strongsville), requiring public and private schools in Ohio to install an exterior master key lock box to ensure law enforcement have access to the building in case of an emergency.

"If this requirement prevents even one tragedy from taking place, then this bill is a success," said Senator Reynolds. "This legislation ensures stronger protections will be set in place so parents and communities across Ohio can have greater confidence in the security of their schools."

“Ensuring the safety of every student in Ohio is a hallmark of good governance,” said Senator Patton. “I'm proud to see the Ohio Senate fully support this legislation so that every school has the infrastructure they need to prevent a tragedy from occuring.”

Senate Bill 290 requires public and private school districts to install a master key lock box for law enforcement access on each school building under their oversight. Installation of a lock box follows recommendations from the U.S. Department of Justice School Safety Working Group. Similar legislation has been passed or is currently pending in nine other states.

The bill now heads to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration. 

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