St. Paul Reporter

Earlier today in St. Paul, Representative Josh Heintzeman (R-Nisswa) and fellow House Republicans introduced a new school safety agenda aimed at increasing student protection, expanding mental health support, and strengthening measures against violent offenders.

“Every parent deserves to know their child is safe at school,” said Heintzeman. “The tragedy in Minneapolis is a painful reminder that we must do more. These proposals are about ensuring every student, in every community, has the safety and support they need.”

The Republican plan includes expanding access to school safety funding for non-public schools—a measure supporters say was overlooked by Democrats in 2023 when security funds were allocated only to public schools. The agenda also calls for new school security grants such as those outlined in the SHIELD Act (HF 15), greater flexibility for schools to use funding on safety improvements, and making School Resource Officers available at all schools.

Additional proposals include repealing or amending restrictions on doctors’ ability to use their medical judgment—rules that House Republicans argue have been set by the Democratic majority—and increasing funding for mental health treatment beds. The agenda also seeks mandatory minimum prison sentences for repeat gun offenders and individuals who make straw purchases of firearms used in violent crimes.

“Students and teachers should be able to focus on learning, not worry about safety. These proposals give schools the resources they need, provide care for those who are struggling, and make sure dangerous criminals are off the streets. That is what real leadership looks like,” Heintzeman added.