N.J. Ready To Put Armed, Retired Cops In Schools

Gov. Chris Christie is expected to sign a bill passed by state lawmakers that will put armed, retired cops in New Jersey schools.

The Senate unanimously passed a bill Thursday establishing "Class Three" special police officers designated to provide security at both public and private schools, and adopted an amendment recommended by the governor.

The new version of the bill, S2983, says the officer must successfully complete a basic firearms course provided by an approved academy before packing a firearm.

Christie conditionally vetoed the bill earlier this month. He said he supported the purpose of the legislation but wants the officers to complete a school resource officer training program first.

"The safety of our children in schools is of paramount concern, especially in the wake of senseless violent attacks in the very places that our children should feel safest," he said in his veto.

Under the bill, Class Three special law enforcement officers would be retired police officers less than 65 years old. These officers would be authorized to provide security at a public or nonpublic school while they are on the school premises, or within 100 feet of the school during hours when it's in session, or when it's occupied by students or their teachers.

"They would be authorized to exercise full powers and duties similar to those of a permanent, regularly appointed full-time police officer while providing this security," according to the legislation.

The bill was first proposed following the 2012 attack at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Patch file photo