Michigan House passes school safety and mental health bills

LANSING, Mich. — After more than two years of legislative efforts, Michigan lawmakers have passed a series of school safety and mental health bills in response to the deadly Oxford High School shooting. The legislation, developed by a bipartisan task force, aims to address weaknesses in existing safety measures and improve mental health programs for students.

"Moms and dads expect their kids to come home safely," said Rep. Harris.

State Representative Mike Harris, who sponsored the legislation, emphasized the importance of preparedness. "So every adult at our schools is prepared for an emergency," he said. The new bills require schools to develop a comprehensive safety plan that all staff members must be trained on.

In the aftermath of the Oxford High School tragedy, students inundated the anonymous OK2SAY tip line managed by Michigan State Police. Under the newly passed bills, all tips must be shared with schools within 24 hours. "No more uncertainty, no more delays, just prompt action with the clear line of communication," said a proponent of the legislation.

Despite the progress, some parents, particularly those who lost children in the Oxford shooting, have questioned the effectiveness of the bills. The legislation now moves to the state Senate for consideration.