New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has announced a plan to try and improve school safety.
He said law enforcement agencies will coordinate to improve communication and awareness of individuals who may pose a safety risk. The Attorney General’s office will review current reporting systems and will assess how potential leads are followed up on.
State Police will also begin regular, but unannounced, visits to all 107 schools in their areas of responsibility.
“Nearly one week has passed since 17 innocent lives were taken during the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School,” Governor Murphy said. “Enough is enough. While state actions cannot replace the federal reforms that are needed, student safety comes first in New Jersey.”
Murphy also pledged that he would work with the state legislature to pass new gun reforms. That includes a measure to restrict those with a mental illness from buying a gun.
Last week, the governor also signaled his support for a measure that would reduce magazine capacity to 10 rounds. Another measure would require a background check on private gun sales.
He called on the federal government to improve its gun laws and said New Jersey would continue acting.
“In the absence of federal action, New Jersey will be promoting a regional effort to combat gun violence by bringing states together in common cause to safeguard our communities,” Governor Murphy said.
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