WHITE PLAINS, NY (September 7, 2022) – A new gun safety training program for superintendents on New York’s new gun laws will begin this Friday.
Why it matters: School officials are one of a few categories of people who can now apply for Extreme Risk Protection Orders.
What are Extreme Risk Protection Orders?
ERPOs are court orders that temporarily restrict individuals who pose an imminent risk to themselves or others from purchasing and possessing firearms.
Who at schools can apply for ERPOs?
- Administrators
- Nurses
- Counselors
Training sessions:
- September 9, 2022: Council of School Administrators at Southern Westchester BOCES with superintendents representing southern Westchester schools
- 2nd session TBA: Northern Westchester school superintendents
Participating Agencies:
- Westchester County District Attorney’s Office
- Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health
- Department of Public Safety
- Boards of Cooperative Educational Services
Governor Kathy Hochul signed new gun legislation in June. The law goes into effect September 1:
- Gun-free zones
- New age restrictions on semi-automatic weapons
- Enhanced red flag laws
What they are saying:
Westchester County DA Miriam E. Rocah: “Schools are one of our most valuable partners in the fight against gun violence and the engagement of school administrators is a critical investment in the safety of our school communities. These trainings are part of my Gun Safety Plan in action, and I’m doing everything in my power, as DA, and as a mother to school-aged children, to ensure New York’s new gun laws are used as effectively as possible.”
President of the Council of School Administrators for Southern Westchester and Superintendent of Byram Hills Central School District Dr. Jen Lamia: “It’s important that as educators and administrators we understand our new role in having a direct impact on the safety of our students and we’re proud to partner with the DA’s office so we can be equipped with the best tools.”
President of the Lower Hudson Council of School Administrators for Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties and Superintendent of Rye City School District: “We’re wholly committed to being central players in this timely dialogue with legal experts who can guide us on ensuring the utmost safety of our school communities.”
Westchester County Executive George Latimer: “There is nothing more important to me than the continued safety and protection of our students in Westchester County. Schools should always be a safe haven – a place where our young people can go to learn, develop and better themselves. It is our responsibility in government to partner with educators, administrators and law enforcement to guarantee the utmost safety of our school communities. I thank DA Rocah for her attention to this important matter.”
Go Deeper:
July 2022 Gun Safety Community Forum
Gun Safety in Our Community PowerPoint