HARRISBURG – A bipartisan bill has been approved by the PA Senate that ensures that parents, guardians, and school staff are promptly notified whenever a weapon is discovered on school grounds or during school activities, regardless of whether the incident results in an expulsion. Under current law, school districts must only report incidents involving weapons to the Department of Education when they result in expulsions. Senate Bill 246 closes the gap, requiring timely notice to both families and school personnel whenever a weapon is found, whether brought by a student, staff member, or visitor. It applies to public, nonpublic, and private schools. Bill supporters say most schools already communicate effectively with families, but this ensures consistency statewide. The bill goes to the Governor’s desk for his signature.
