1,000-foot school safety zones needed

I am writing to express my concerns about school safety in our community and to advocate for the implementation of 1,000-foot school safety zones in Ohio.

As a resident of New Albany, I believe that ensuring the safety of our children and educators should be a top priority. By extending school safety zones to encompass a larger buffer around our schools, we can create a safer learning environment and help deter potential threats.

The federal Gun-free School Zones Act of 1990 establishes a 1,000-foot buffer around public, parochial, or private schools within which firearms are generally prohibited, subject to certain exceptions. However, the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) defines “school safety zone” more narrowly, encompassing a school, school building, school premises, school activity, and any school bus, without specifying a 1,000-foot boundary.

States such as California and New York have already implemented 1,000-foot school safety zones in their legislation. California’s Gun-free School Zone Act of 1995 and New York Penal Law Section 265.01-a both serve as examples of how state-level legislation can enhance school safety by creating a more extensive buffer around educational institutions.

I urge our state legislators to explore the possibility of introducing state legislation that establishes 1,000foot school safety zones in Ohio. While the proposed legislation may raise concerns about enforcement, its impact on lawful gun owners, and potential conflicts with existing laws, I believe that with careful consideration and stakeholder input, it is possible to develop a policy that balances individual rights and public safety concerns.

As a community, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of our children and educators. Let us advocate for the expansion of school safety zones in Ohio and work together to create a safer environment for learning and growth.

Ryan Sevey, New Albany