North Michigan News

State Senators Michael Webber and John Damoose have proposed new legislation aimed at enhancing school safety in Michigan. The bills, introduced on Tuesday, focus on implementing mobile panic alert systems across public and nonpublic schools to improve real-time coordination during emergencies.

Senator Webber emphasized the importance of these systems, stating: “This legislation would raise Michigan up alongside several other states that have enacted school mobile panic alert systems — critical technology to support the safety of students, school personnel and campus visitors through real-time communication.” He highlighted their role in connecting schools with 911 services, law enforcement, and first responders during various security emergencies.

The proposed Senate Bill 76 by Webber seeks to amend Michigan’s Revised School Code to mandate the implementation of these systems starting from the 2025-26 school year. Meanwhile, Senator Damoose's Senate Bill 77 aims to adjust the state school aid budget to allocate $6.7 million for initiating this implementation within the current fiscal year.

Damoose remarked on the practicality of adopting such technology: “The technology is available — we’ve seen it work in other states,” adding that it would significantly enhance emergency response capabilities while utilizing surplus funding effectively.

The concept of mobile panic alert systems has been recognized under Alyssa’s Law in several states including Florida, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Texas. Other states like Missouri and North Carolina have provided financial support for these systems without mandating them by law.