Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Horicon) attended a press conference today in the Capitol alongside Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski), Dr. Michael Prezioso, Commissioner of the Saratoga County Department of Mental Health and several members of the Assembly Minority Conference. After many discussions with parents, teachers, mental health experts and law enforcement, the lawmakers announced the release of the final report from the Minority Conference Task Force on School Safety & Security, which included solutions and recommendations such as: 

• Increasing Law Enforcement Presence in Schools
• Addressing Mental Health Issues in Schools
• Open Communication Between Stakeholders
• Innovative State Support for School Safety and Security
• Identifying Threats and Providing Support to At-Risk Students

“No parents should have to worry when their child goes to school that they might not return. Teachers should not have to prioritize emergency procedures or be in fear in the classroom, which takes away from their lesson plans for the day. We have a serious crisis that is not only in New York but across the country–something has to change. By implementing the real solutions contained in the task force report, with input from professionals, I am hopeful we can take appropriate measures to protect our children and teachers so this is no longer a fear and schools can be a safe space once again” said Simpson.