The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 290 on May 15, requiring all public and private schools in the state to install an exterior master key lock box. The measure aims to ensure law enforcement can access school buildings quickly during emergencies.
The bill is designed to strengthen school safety and provide parents and communities with greater confidence in security measures. Supporters say that rapid access for first responders could help prevent tragedies.
“If this requirement prevents even one tragedy from taking place, then this bill is a success,” said State Senator Michele Reynolds. “This legislation ensures stronger protections will be set in place so parents and communities across Ohio can have greater confidence in the security of their schools.”
Senator Tom Patton also commented on the importance of the legislation, saying, “Ensuring the safety of every student in Ohio is a hallmark of good governance. I’m proud to see the Ohio Senate fully support this legislation so that every school has the infrastructure they need to prevent a tragedy from occuring.”
Senate Bill 290 requires each public and private school district to install a master key lock box for law enforcement access at every building under their oversight. The installation follows recommendations from the U.S. Department of Justice School Safety Working Group, and similar laws have been enacted or are pending in nine other states.
The bill now moves to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration.
