Gardner School Emergency Response Bill Signed into Law

HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – State Rep. Bob Gardner’s bill to ensure schools have an effective emergency response system was signed into law at Douglas County School District’s Rock Canyon High School today.

Senate Bill 173 clarifies the existing framework for school emergency incident preparedness and response, including communications between schools and state and local emergency personnel.

“The safety of our students, teachers and administrators is paramount, and this bill takes the extra precautions necessary to ensure that emergency responses are coordinated and effective in our schools,” said Gardner, R-Colorado Springs.

The bill specifies the role of the Department of Public Safety’s Fire Safety Division in assessing a school's emergency response framework. SB 173 also encourages collaboration from the School Safety Resource Center within the Department of Public Safety and the Office of Information Technology.

“The bottom line is that schools should be a safe environment for our children,” said Gardner. “With this new law, schools are better prepared and equipped to respond to any emergencies that would compromise a safe learning environment.”

Senate Bill 173 passed with unanimous support in both chambers of the Legislature. The bill went into effect upon receiving the governor’s signature.

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