Minnesota House Poised to Pass Fix for School Resource Officer Law

(KNSI) — The Minnesota House is expected to pass a measure Monday that would fix language in the education bill that led police departments around the state to suspend their School Resource Officer programs.

The language barred SROs from using certain hold positions to restrain physically aggressive students. Departments said the wording was too ambiguous and could open officers to criminal prosecution or civil liabilities. Clarifications were issued by the League of Minnesota Cities, Minnesota Chief’s Association, county attorneys, city lawyers and the Attorney General’s Office, leading to some, including St. Cloud, to reinstate their programs, but others said the program would remain suspended until a legislative fix is found.

That could come Monday.

A new bill was put forth exempting SROs from new regulations covering holds and restraints, but teachers and staff would still have to adhere to it. It also includes a process for training and conduct. The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training will develop it.

The bill appeared on the fast track when the legislature reconvened on February 12th but hit a snag before it was sent to the House Ways and Means Committee. That’s the last stop before the floor. House Republicans say they’ve been left out of discussions, and Democrats need their votes to pass it.

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