SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings passed a proposal through the Senate to put in place state standards for Illinois school districts when it comes to emergency response and threat assessments.

“Parents have enough to worry about on a day-to-day basis, dropping their kids off at school should not be one of them,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Getting standardized plans set in place could save countless lives if an emergency occurs.”

Senate Bill 2057 would require the State Board of Education to provide school districts with standards for a school district's threat assessment procedures. The bill would allow ISBE and the Office of the State Fire Marshall to create new rules that guide school districts, private schools, and first responders on how to develop threat assessment procedures, rapid entry response plans, and cardiac emergency response plans. The bill would also give guidance for school districts notifying parents and the community of threats against a school.

In 2024, a school shooting at Apalachee High School occurred leaving four dead. This led to threats of a similar school shooting made on schools in several Illinois counties, including schools in Will and Cook counties – counties in Hastings’ district. In response, Hastings brought Senate Bill 2057 to Springfield.

“As a father of two young children, this legislation is personal to me,” said Hastings. “You never know what tomorrow might bring, it is essential to be prepared for the unexpected.”

Senate Bill 2057 passed the Senate with bipartisan support on Wednesday.