LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Michael Webber on Tuesday introduced legislation to implement mobile panic alert systems throughout the state’s public and nonpublic schools to ensure real-time coordination between schools, 911, law enforcement and first responders.
“My legislation would bring Michigan alongside several other states that have enacted school mobile panic alert systems,” said Webber, R-Rochester Hills. “These critical systems provide a technologically sound framework to support the safety of students, school personnel and campus visitors by ensuring real-time coordination between schools, 911, law enforcement and first responders during security emergencies, such as non-fire evacuations, lockdowns, and active shooter situations. As technology advances and improves, a hard-wired panic alert system is no longer necessary or the best means to reach the goal of safer schools.”
Senate Bill 1032 would amend Michigan’s Revised School Code to require public and nonpublic schools to implement mobile panic alert systems beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. SB 1033 would amend the state School Aid budget to make $6.7 million available during the current fiscal year for schools to begin implementation.
“I am disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle have yet to fully restore the school safety funding that was cut in the state budget. Ensuring the safety of our children that attend public and nonpublic schools is a responsibility we all share,” Webber said.
School panic alert system legislation, often referred to as Alyssa’s Law, has been enacted in Florida, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee and Texas. Bills have also been introduced in Arizona, Nebraska, Georgia, Virginia and Oregon. Other states, including Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Delaware and North Carolina, have provided funding for school panic alert systems without requiring the systems by law.
State Reps. Donnie Steele and Mark Tisdel have introduced the same legislation in the Michigan House of Representatives — House Bills 5954 and 5990, respectively.
“Schools should have the best technology available in order for schools to be as safe as possible,” said Steele, R-Orion Township.
“This provides real-time coordination between school resource officers, 911 and law enforcement, which is critical in emergency situations,” said Tisdel, R-Rochester Hills.