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Dear Neighbor,
Concerns are growing regarding how changes in state law made earlier this year could compromise safety in Minnesota schools.?
An omnibus education bill (HF 2497)?enacted into law after the 2023 session concluded?imposes new prohibitions on the use of force in schools,?banning certain physical holds by ?an employee or agent of a district, including a school resource officer, security personnel, or police officer contracted with a district."?
This change, made by Democrats in St. Paul, has?caused School Resource Officers to be removed from a number of Minnesota schools,?undermining the ability to provide a safe learning environment for students and staff.?
The Democrat majority and Gov. Tim Walz have been reckless and unreasonable. They shoved ill-conceived policies through at warp speed without considering the impact on Minnesotans. School districts and law enforcement have raised vital concerns with the new law, saying it would result in many districts pulling their SROs. Unfortunately, Democrats have refused to listen. Now, our children will be less safe, and Democrats refuse to take the action necessary to correct their mess.
The League of Minnesota Cities and the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association are among groups to recently raise concerns publicly regarding this issue.?
Meanwhile, House Republicans authored legislation during the 2023 legislative session?stipulating a student who is violent could be removed from a classroom and then returned after a consultation by the school administrator with the teacher, parents, and appropriate school support personnel regarding ways to improve the student?s behavior. The Democrat majority initially included the measure in an omnibus education package last spring but removed it from the bill late in the 2023 session.
Until next time, please stay in touch and please let me know how I can help.
Sincerely,
Walter
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