Minnesota signs updated school resource officer bill into law

(St. Paul, MN) -- Governor Tim Walz moved quickly to fix a state law that led to confusion over the use of force by school resource officers.

The Minnesota Senate passed a bill clarifying those standards yesterday, and Walz signed the bill into law. The bill had run into a snag in the Senate earlier this week when an amendment was added to expand when reasonable force can be used by school staffers. A conference committee restored the original version of the bill, which was quickly passed by both chambers.

"Every child deserves a world-class education and a learning environment that is safe, supportive, and healthy. As integral members of their school community, school resource officers serve students and teachers day in and day out. This bill provides comprehensive guidance and clarity, allowing school resource officers to continue to do their jobs effectively,” said Governor Walz. “I’m grateful to legislators, school leaders, education advocates, youth voices, and law enforcement for working together to get this done and ensure we’re keeping our kids safe.”

You can learn more about the bill by clicking here.