New bill could require school resource officers to be armed

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – A proposed bill in Frankfort would require every school police officer to be armed.

Joe Saunier is the school resource officer at Western Hills High School in Frankfort.

Saunier carries a firearm with him while he patrol the schools. He says he’s never had to use it, but he like having it in case he needs it to protect his students and teachers.

“If a school shooting happens they’ll want me to have a weapon,” said Joe Saunier.

Senate Bill 8 could require school resource officers to have a firearm. It would also require there to be one school counselor for every 250 students.

The school’s principal believes this legislation is a step in the right direction for protecting kids and giving them an environment where they can succeed.

“I think the legislators are on the right track to helping the schools. Unfortunately, we do a lot more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic these days, we have the full child,” said Greg Roush, Principal.

Saunier says if this legislation goes through, he wants there to be a requirement that the officers get trained to properly use their gun.

“Being prepared is part of the ball game,” said Saunier.

Arming school police officers has its critics.

Some people there’s no evidence arming officers increases overall safety or prevents shootings.

A grandmother with two grand kids in Kentucky schools says she opposes the bill. Carolyn Halcomb says, “I would like to see KY legislators look for real safety solutions, such as metal detectors, additional social workers and counselors for students.”

Another criticism is that it gives the officer an intimidating presence and can contribute to a negative attitude about police.