http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/stoneman-douglas-vigil-s5.jpgIn wake of Florida school shooting, Senate GOP votes against safety plan funding on Tuesday.

MADISON, WI – In seeking to provide more protections for students, teachers and staff at local schools, Senate Democrats introduced an amendment that would provide revenue limit exemptions for expenditures made under a school safety plan. Republicans blocked the amendment that would allow schools to decide what safety plan works for their district.

“Days after a deadly school shooting, it is appalling that Republicans would vote against a measure to help schools increase security measures,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse). “Every student, teacher and staff member should have the opportunity to go to school knowing that it is a safe space, free from the threat of deadly weapons and dangerous individuals. It is unfair that powerful gun lobbyists are able to override local families and write rules that threaten Wisconsin communities.”

The School Safety Plan was originally implemented by Democrats in 2009 budget to combat concerns over security for students and staff in schools. Republicans eliminated this provision in the 2011 biennial budget.