Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Steven Oroho (R-Sussex, Warren, Morris) to increase funding for school security was signed into law.

“Improving the safety and security of students and faculty in every classroom is paramount,” Oroho said. “Every student deserves a warm and nurturing environment where they’re not afraid to learn. Every teacher deserves a safe workplace where they can focus on educating. Every parent deserves peace of mind knowing their child is protected when at school. I’m glad our collective effort to better guard against violence in more New Jersey schools is now law.”

The enacted bill, S-3080, doubles per pupil spending for non-public security aid from $75 to $150, an overall increase from $11.3 million to $22.6 million. This comes in the wake of recent shootings in schools and places of worship.

This new law comes on the heels of the $500 million “Securing Our Children’s Future” ballot measure passed by the voters this past November which will also be used in great part to bolster school security.

“Churches, synagogues, and schools are unfortunately not immune from the evils of this world,” Oroho added. “Every step must be taken safeguard all students, no matter what school they attend.”