New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S677

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

Impact

This bill will create a systematic approach to school violence prevention by establishing a defined protocol for identifying risks and reporting them promptly. It introduces various components, such as the development of a threat assessment measurement tool and a training curriculum grounded in scientific principles. The meaning behind this initiative is to cultivate a safer educational environment, fulfilling the state's responsibility of providing a secure and effective learning atmosphere. Furthermore, it facilitates collaboration among multiple agencies, including health and education departments, creating a comprehensive response to threats of school violence.

Summary

Senate Bill S677, known as the 'Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program,' aims to enhance school safety in New Jersey through a structured initiative focused on identifying and preventing threats of school violence. This bill establishes a three-year pilot program within the Department of Law and Public Safety, targeting specific counties and cities, to train law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, teachers, and students on recognizing behaviors that could indicate potential threats. By implementing training and threat assessment strategies, the program seeks to equip participants with the necessary tools for prevention and intervention.

Contention

While the bill is designed to improve school safety, potential points of contention could arise regarding implementation logistics and resource allocation. With funds being appropriated from the general fund, critics may raise concerns about budget constraints and the effectiveness of the training provided. Moreover, discussions around the balance between proactive security measures and the privacy rights of students, teachers, and families may emerge, especially regarding the monitoring of behaviors within the school environment. The pilot program's outcomes will be closely evaluated by the Attorney General, who is tasked with reporting to the Governor and Legislature, thereby influencing the future expansion of this program across the state.

Companion Bills

NJ A4250

Same As Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

Previously Filed As

NJ S793

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

NJ A4250

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

NJ A1894

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection Pilot Program" in certain counties and cities of first class; makes an appropriation.

NJ A2338

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection Pilot Program" in certain counties and cities of first class; makes an appropriation.

NJ AB99

School safety: crisis intervention and targeted violence prevention program.

NJ SB560

EAGLES Act of 2025This bill reauthorizes the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) within the U.S. Secret Service.It reauthorizes the functions of NTAC through FY2030 and expands them to include additional activities related to the prevention of targeted violence, such as the establishment of a national program on targeted school violence prevention.

NJ H0441

Gun Violence Prevention Pilot Program

NJ AB2132

School safety: crisis intervention and targeted violence prevention program.

NJ A622

Establishes the "Safe Schools and Communities Violence Prevention and Response Plan Act of 2023"; appropriates $10 million.

NJ S562

Establishes the "Mental Health Treatment Reform and Violence Prevention Act."

Similar Bills

CA AB2668

Integrated School-Based Behavioral Health Partnership Program.

CA AB2666

Behavioral health internship grant program.

IL HB5094

DIRECT CARE EXPANSION ACT

CA AB552

Integrated School-Based Behavioral Health Partnership Program.

NJ A4250

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

NJ S793

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) Pilot Program."

NJ A1894

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection Pilot Program" in certain counties and cities of first class; makes an appropriation.

NJ A2338

Establishes "Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection Pilot Program" in certain counties and cities of first class; makes an appropriation.