Senator Pugh Files Legislation to Extend School Safety Funding

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, has filed legislation to continue strengthening school safety measures across Oklahoma by extending the School Security Revolving Fund for an additional three years.

Senate Bill 1189 would direct $50 million per year to ensure that schools can sustain these vital improvements and continue prioritizing safe learning environments.

Created in 2023, the fund has helped schools enhance safety standards and better protect students, teachers and staff. Districts have used the funding to hire school resource officers, upgrade security equipment and implement local safety initiatives tailored to their specific needs.

“Safety should never be a question when we drop our kids off at school in the morning,” Pugh said. “Every child deserves to learn in an environment where they feel protected, and every teacher deserves to focus on teaching without worrying about threats to their safety. This fund has been instrumental in helping schools strengthen their security posture, whether that’s through adding trained school resource officers, installing secure entry systems or improving communication tools during emergencies.

“I’ve heard directly from superintendents, parents and local law enforcement who have seen the impact of this investment firsthand. They’ve shared how these dollars are being used responsibly and creatively to meet the unique needs of each district. Extending the program gives schools the long-term support they need to build on that progress and continue prioritizing the safety of Oklahoma’s students and educators. I’m committed to working with my colleagues to ensure this effort continues.”

As part of the original legislation, each district was provided with approximately $285,000 to hire a school resource officer or make necessary upgrades. To qualify for funding, school districts must complete a risk and vulnerability assessment conducted by the Oklahoma School Security Institute (OSSI) by July 1, 2026.

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