Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Thom Tillis, and Susan Collins have written an op-ed for Newsweek discussing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. The legislation, signed into law on June 25, 2022, aims to address issues related to mental health and school safety that contribute to mass shootings.

The senators express concern over the increasing mental health challenges faced by young people today. They highlight Jonathan Haidt's book "The Anxious Generation," which discusses the rise in anxiety and depression among teenagers.

Prompted by the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Congress responded with this act to provide more mental health resources and enhance school safety measures. The senators were instrumental in advocating for this legislation.

The primary goal of the law is to reduce violence and save lives. It includes measures for improving how schools handle mental health issues and provides resources to strengthen schools against potential threats.

The act represents a significant investment in community-based mental health care in the United States. It expands the community behavioral health center model nationwide and increases access to suicide prevention programs and crisis intervention.

The legislation also supports student mental health by expanding support services like early identification and bringing 14,000 additional mental health professionals into U.S. schools. To date, over $570 million has been awarded to K-12 schools across America under this law.

Additionally, the act allocates more than $1 billion in grants for safety and security measures on campuses nationwide. Schools have used these funds for various safety enhancements such as safety film for doors, video management systems, and specialized radios.

According to law enforcement reports cited by the senators, these measures have already had life-saving impacts in incidents like one at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia.

Senators Cornyn, Tillis, and Collins emphasize their pride in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act's positive effects on students and schools. They encourage all districts to take advantage of available grants as part of efforts to create safe learning environments where children can thrive.