Shenango Valley News

The Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill sponsored by Senator Michele Brooks aimed at addressing false emergency threats targeting schools. Senate Bill 96 proposes establishing new felony penalties for those making hoax emergency reports involving educational institutions. If the bill becomes law, making a false report of an emergency threat to a school would be classified as a third-degree felony. Courts would also have the provision to impose financial penalties to recover costs incurred by taxpayers for emergency response efforts.

"Ensuring the safety of our students, teachers, and school staff is of the utmost importance," stated Brooks. "False emergency threats not only cause widespread fear and disruption but also place an unnecessary burden on law enforcement and emergency responders, diverting resources from actual emergencies."

The initiative responds to a rising number of hoax threats in Pennsylvania, creating undue panic among students and parents while straining local emergency services. The urgency of implementing stronger penalties was highlighted by incidents on March 29, 2023, when multiple schools in Pennsylvania, including Farrell High School in Mercer County and New Castle High School in Lawrence County, were targeted by false emergency threats.

"This bill sends a clear message that making false emergency threats is not a prank – it is a serious crime with real consequences," Brooks asserted. "I appreciate my Senate colleagues for recognizing the importance of this measure, and I look forward to working toward its passage in the House."

The bill is part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and ensure threats against schools face proper legal consequences. It now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.