Moments ago, the Florida Sheriffs Association released the following letter requesting adequate funding for School Resource Officers. This letter was sent to Florida Governor Rick Scott, House Speaker Corcoran, and Senate President Negron. Here is the text in its entirety:

“Since last month’s tragic event at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, sheriffs have been part of the statewide effort to bring forward solutions to keep our students safe. The welfare of our youth has always been a top priority for the sheriffs in Florida. We strongly believe both the House and Senate must pass comprehensive legislation this year to address a wide variety of school safety issues.

Sheriffs fully support having all schools assigned a sworn sheriff’s deputy or police officer present on our school campuses. To achieve this end, sheriffs strongly believe the top priority must be additional state funding to ensure schools have a certified law enforcement officer ready to serve as a School Resource Officer (SRO). SRO programs emphasize the importance of collaboration between school officials and local law enforcement by promoting a community-based approach to school violence. Increasing the number of SROs on school campuses will greatly enhance school safety and protect students, teachers, and administrators. 

We are in the business of saving lives, and none are more precious than the lives of our children.  We believe state funding for SROs is the best way to prevent another tragedy from occurring in our schools. The Florida Legislature must make funding School Resource Officers their top priority.”
 

# # #

Florida Sheriffs Association:
The Florida Sheriffs Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation made up of the Sheriffs of Florida, approximately 3,500 business leaders and 70,000 citizens throughout the state. Founded in 1893, FSA has steadfastly served the citizens of Florida by supporting the needs of the state's law enforcement community. Through the Florida Sheriffs Association, Sheriffs are given a forum to address lawmakers to push for positive changes in Florida’s public safety arena. FSA also provides Sheriffs' Offices much-needed programs such as affordable training, special task forces and legislative and legal services. Dedicated to the prevention of juvenile delinquency and the development of lawful, productive citizens, FSA has established and funded the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches with facilities throughout the state to help restore hope, fulfill dreams, and prepare boys and girls for the future. It has grown to be one of the largest and most successful state law enforcement associations in the nation.