Connecticut House Bill HB06682

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/13
• Refer: 3/25/13
• Report Pass: 4/19/13
• Refer: 4/29/13
• Report Pass: 5/6/13
• Refer: 5/14/13
• Report Pass: 5/16/13
• Engrossed: 5/23/13
• Report Pass: 5/27/13

Caption

An Act Concerning Collaboration Between Boards Of Education And Law Enforcement Personnel.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6682 would significantly influence how law enforcement interacts with students and school administrations. It mandates that each educational board establish a policy or memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement agencies, addressing issues such as daily interactions between police and students as well as the use of a graduated response model for student discipline. This shift could foster more collaborative approaches to preventing and addressing conflicts, enhancing both safety and educational outcomes in schools.

Summary

House Bill 6682, titled 'An Act Concerning Collaboration Between Boards of Education and Law Enforcement Personnel,' seeks to formalize the relationship and collaboration protocols between educational institutions and law enforcement agencies. This legislation aims to ensure that local and regional boards of education establish clear guidelines regarding the involvement of police officers in schools, focusing on student interactions, safety protocols, and discipline practices. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe learning environments while ensuring that disciplinary measures are fair and appropriate for students of all ages.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 6682 appears mixed, with some stakeholders praising the proactive approach to ensuring student safety and fostering communication between schools and police. Supporters argue that creating structured guidelines can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that disciplinary actions are appropriate and equitable. However, there are concerns regarding the potential over-policing of school environments, where critics worry that increased police presence could negatively impact the school atmosphere and lead to harsher disciplinary outcomes for students.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding this bill include the balance between ensuring safety and maintaining a supportive educational environment. Critics are particularly concerned about the potential for increased surveillance and policing within schools, which may disproportionately affect marginalized student populations. Advocates for the bill argue that establishing clear definitions of roles and responsibilities can mitigate these risks and create a more supportive space for students while addressing safety concerns effectively.