Hawaii House Bill HR84

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/13/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Law Enforcement, To Conduct A Study On The Feasibility Of Having School Resource Officers In The State And The Effects Of Having School Resource Officers On The Campuses Of Educational Institutions.

Impact

If enacted, the study proposed by HR84 could significantly influence state education policies and the approach to school safety. By examining the potential benefits and impacts of having SROs on campuses, the resolution seeks to provide a foundation for informed decision-making regarding the safety measures within public schools. Additionally, the outcomes might prompt legislative proposals that would implement SRO programs, thus altering the existing framework on how school safety is managed in Hawaii—a vital issue given the recent surge in threatening incidents.

Summary

House Resolution 84 (HR84) aims to address growing concerns regarding safety in public schools across Hawaii, in light of recent incidents of violence and disruption that have raised alarms among educators, students, and parents. The resolution specifically requests a study from the Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Law Enforcement, to explore the feasibility of implementing school resource officers (SROs) in educational institutions throughout the state. This initiative is a response to several alarming events, including lockdowns due to armed individuals and threats that jeopardize the safety of students and staff alike.

Contention

The key points of contention regarding HR84 may arise from differing opinions on the effectiveness and implications of having law enforcement present in educational settings. Supporters argue that SROs could provide immediate safety measures and a sense of security for students and staff, potentially deterring violence. Conversely, critics may voice concerns about the potential for criminalization of students, the impact on the learning environment, and the proper role of law enforcement in schools. Such discussions will likely be pivotal in shaping the findings and recommendations that the study will produce.

Final_note

The resolution emphasizes a collaborative approach, aiming not just to assess practicalities, but also to consider the broader implications of maintaining a secure learning environment while fostering an atmosphere conducive to education.