Ranking Member Thompson Releases Statement on DHS School Safety Report
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement on the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) release of its Efforts to Enhance Security of K-12 Schools and Childhood Education Programs Report. It details the procedures and initiatives implemented by DHS to enhance collaboration among the Department’s offices responsible for ensuring the safety and security of early childhood education programs, including elementary and secondary schools. This report was a requirement from legislation sponsored by Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-NJ), the School and Daycare Protection Act, which was included in the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act.
“I believe this report represents substantial progress within DHS to strengthen and develop programs, training, and tools to support our nation’s schools – ensuring the safety of our most vulnerable. It is clear our schools face an evolving threat landscape requiring DHS to maximize its resources to best assist in keeping our schools safe.
“This report is another opportunity to thank our dear friend and colleague Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. for his tireless work on school security issues after unfortunately losing him this week. A champion for children, he led school security hearings in 2018 and 2019 when he was both Chairman and Ranking Member of the Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Subcommittee. With his absence, we promise to continue his work on behalf of children."
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