Statement From Senate Majority Leader John J. Flanagan

Every New Yorker and every American is outraged by the senseless violence that is occurring in schools throughout the country. It is unacceptable and must be stopped.

Our Senate Republican Majority is hard at work on a comprehensive school safety plan that will ensure the state provides the support necessary to strengthen school security and keep students safe. We have had productive internal discussions this week on the concepts of a full legislative package, and expect to act as early as next week.

Perhaps every parent's greatest fear is sending their child off to school and he or she not returning safely into their loving arms at the end of the day. I know it was mine. That is why we must act swiftly and decisively to implement additional school safety measures in school buildings throughout our state. 

More money for security cameras and the hardening of school doors. The resources necessary to put a cop or an armed resource officer in every school that wants one. Panic buttons and active shooter drills. Better emergency response plans and greater coordination by law enforcement at all levels. And, a much stronger response to the mental health issues at the heart of much of this violence. Every responsible option is on the table, and wherever we think we can make a difference, we will act.

Schools must be safe havens, where students can learn and teachers can teach. In New York, they will be.