New law would offer schools guidelines on active shooter drills

A California Assembly bill would standardize active shooter drills in schools.

Assembly Bill 1858, introduced by Assemblymember Christoper Ward, D-San Diego, would prohibit simulated gunfire during an active shooter drill, require that drills be age appropriate and that a schoolwide announcement be made before one begins. Schools must also notify parents in advance and after an active shooter drill, and provide any resources families may need after a drill, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The legislation would require the California Department of Education to provide updated guidance on active shooter drills to schools.

Although the legislation is meant to be mindful of students’ mental health, other organizations have recommended against active shooter drills, saying they are associated with an increase in depression, stress and physiological health problems in students, teachers and parents, according to the Los Angeles Times report.