HK_USP_45 wrote:This bill was not good. It created a new class of peace officer called a School Marshall. But they can't carry a weapon if they are with students. That makes them useless in an active shooter situation. "Excuse me while I go get my weapon out of that box over there".
From the article: "Marshals working directly with students would have to keep their guns in a lockbox "within immediate reach," according to the measure. Marshals not working with students would be allowed to carry concealed weapons."
Teachers, Tutors, Teachers Aides, SPED teachers, and advisors/counselors all work 'with' students. The words "within immediate reach" would imply that a lockbox in the actual classroom would fulfill the letter of the law as well as provide a secure location for the weapon and allow a teacher to provide some level of protection for the students.
Also, administrative as well as office and other support staff do not work 'WITH" students. My reading of the law shows these could legally conceal carry if trained and CHL current. No lockbox required since many of these roam the school in the performance of their regular job duties and do NOT work with students directly.
I do agree with your other points. 1 'Marshall' for 200 students or per campus, would have given better protection, in my view.
Then again, School Districts in Texas apparently already have the authority to allow staff who have CHL's to carry on campus.