ANNAPOLIS, MD—Senator J.B. Jennings has introduced Senate Bill 644 — Public Schools — School Resource Officers — Firearms Required, a new measure aimed at bolstering the safety of students and staff in Maryland’s public schools.

The proposed legislation mandates that all Public School Resource Officers (SROs) and School Police Officers carry firearms while on duty in schools. Senator Jennings emphasized that these officers are highly trained law enforcement professionals with extensive sensitivity and trauma-informed training. This equips them to make measured decisions and use non-lethal de-escalation tools, such as communication tactics or pepper spray, whenever possible. However, in situations involving critical threats, the ability to respond with a firearm could save lives.

“This legislation reflects our commitment to safeguarding our children and ensuring a secure learning environment,” Senator Jennings stated. “School Resource Officers are vital members of their communities and should be empowered to act decisively to protect students and staff in potentially life-threatening scenarios.” Senator Jennings highlighted that the additional funding allocated to school-based officers makes this requirement an appropriate step in ensuring school safety.

Dr. Marvin Cheatham, an expert witness supporting the bill, who is the president of a prominent neighborhood association in Baltimore City, voiced his community’s support, citing the high crime rates in his area, including 40 annual homicides and two recent shootings near school premises. He stressed the urgent need for this legislation to address violence affecting schools and neighborhoods.

“The goal of this bill is clear: to prioritize safety in all schools across Maryland,” Senator Jennings added.

He cited recent incidents, such as the September 6, 2024 shooting at Joppatowne High School and the 2024 bomb threat at the Maryland State House, as examples of why armed and prepared law enforcement officers are necessary in schools.

Senator Jennings also called attention to the perceived contradiction in opposition to the bill by some Senate members who benefit from armed security themselves.

“If armed protection is good enough for the State House, it should be good enough for our schools,” he concluded.

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