Legislators Want More Schools To Make Security Plans

Some North Carolina legislators want more schools to provide basic building information and access to local and state law enforcement to better respond to emergencies or violent acts on campus.

The General Assembly's emergency management oversight committee recommended several bills Thursday it wants approved when the legislature reconvenes next month.

One bill would require charter schools, regional schools and K-12 private schools receiving taxpayer-funded tuition vouchers to provide schematic building diagrams to authorities and to create risk management plans. Currently charter and other non-traditional public schools are only encouraged to do so. Requirements include annual drills.

Another bill would encourage police to create citizen academies and volunteer programs to broaden public awareness of security issues.

A separate House committee is already examining school safety issues following the Florida school shooting.