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Campus Safety Act Passes House

On February 3rd, the House of Representatives passed the Campus Safety Act of 2009 (HR 748) by voice vote. The legislation was sponsored by Congressman Robert C. Scott (D-VA), chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security. The measure has drawn bipartisan support, including that of the subcommittee’s ranking member, Louie Gohmert (R-TX). The legislation authorizes the creation of a center that would provide $2.8 million in educational and training grants to campus public safety and mental health offices. The Campus Safety Center would also develop protocols for responding to campus emergencies and serve as a clearinghouse of information on best practices for campuses. The bill now move to the Senate for consideration. If approved, funding would need to be appropriated for the center in the annual appropriations process.