Kentucky lawmakers file bill allowing ‘school marshal’ to have access to firearm on school grounds

handgun-logo-01-26
handgun-logo-01-26

Two Kentucky lawmakers have filed a bill that would allow schools to have one employee with access to a gun on campus.

The bill’s sponsors, Sen. Stephen West and Sen. Ralph Alvarado, say they want to improve school safety throughout the state. Currently in Kentucky it’s a felony to carry a weapon onto school property.

Under the bill, state school boards would be permitted to appoint “school marshals,” who would have to be an employee of the district (or private school) and must hold a concealed carry license, said multiple media reports.

The Republican lawmakers say the bill would give school boards or governing bodies another option to help protect children in their schools.

Restrictions in the bill include allowing one marshal per 400 students and staff, as well as the types of firearms marshals would be allowed bring to school. Under the legislation, marshals would be required to keep their guns in a locked and secured area that is readily accessible to them.

Sen. West filed the same bill two years ago, but the measure received only lukewarm support.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

By Ken Howlett, News Director

Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000