Governor Releases School Safety Recommendations

Gov. Eric Holcomb recently released a report detailing school safety recommendations compiled by a team of state leaders and safety experts. Over 400 responses were collected from school administrators, educators, first responders and others to create the 18 recommendations.

The report groups recommendations into three categories – mental health; safety equipment, tools, technology and training; and policy or legislative considerations.

Some of the recommendations cited in the report include:

• Enhance and expand mental health services;
• Increase funding flexibility for local law enforcement presence in schools;
• Require active shooter drills in every school; and
• Improve funding flexibility for school safety grants.

School safety continues to be a top priority for lawmakers, and my colleagues and I will closely study these recommendations as we look for ways to ensure Indiana schools have the necessary tools to protect our students and teachers from harm.

Click here to read the full report.

INDOT Accepting Local Trax Matching Grant Applications

The Indiana Department of Transportation is accepting applications for the Local Trax matching grant program through Aug. 31.

Local Trax provides at least $125 million in state matching funds for communities interested in pursuing high-priority railroad grade separations, crossing closures and other safety enhancements at railroad intersections with local roads.

Click here to learn more about the Local Trax matching grant program.