Push to change NYS lockdown drill requirements

MECHANICVILLE, N.Y. (NEWS10) - The debate over school lockdown drills has reemerged as legislators reintroduced a bill to reduce the frequency of those drills. In 2016 a law was passed mandating that New York schools run at least four lockdown drills per year, which has been criticized for potentially causing psychological harm to students. Senator Andrew Gounardes (D - 26) and Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon presented the bill in Albany on Monday.

Sheffali Welch, of Moms Demand Action, emphasized the adverse effects on students' mental health. "Excessive drills increase anxiety and depression in children of all ages. Haven't our kids been through enough?" Welch asked at a press conference at the Capitol on Tuesday.

The proposed legislation, which failed to reach the floor last year, aims to cut the number of required drills down to just two per year. It also suggests that parents be notified in advance of these exercises.

However, not everyone agrees with reducing the number of drills. Ken Cooper, a retired police officer who coordinates lockdown drills at Mechanicville High School, argues that reducing drills could compromise student safety. "Once we start limiting the amount of lockdowns, the people that actually are thinking about doing these active shooting events are gonna be at an advantage."

Sophia Tomasso, a senior at Mechanicville High School, also expressed her support for continued preparedness. "I could be off at college and the same thing could happen, and I'd know what to do," she said, highlighting the value of readiness in emergency situations.

As this bill makes its way through legislative channels, both sides of the debate continue to advocate strongly for their views, shaping a conversation that impacts the safety and well-being of students across New York.