Retired law enforcement officers will be permitted to work as security officers at schools in New Jersey after Governor Chris Christie signed a new bill into law Wednesday.
The law, which will go into effect in June, will allow former police officers under the age of 65 who retired in good standing to provide security at public and private schools in the state and at county colleges, reports Garfield.dailyvoice.com.
The security officers would be allowed to carry guns after passing a biannual certification and could respond to some off-campus emergencies.
Governor Christie signed Senate Bill 86 after extensive lobbying by state lawmakers. Christie had previously conditionally vetoed the bill with the stipulation that officers should complete school resource officer training.
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“These officers already have years of experience under their belts, which should make this transition to school security much easier,” Senator Anthony Bucco, who sponsored the bill, said. “I’m confident they will do a great job protecting our schools and help us prevent any tragedies in our classrooms.”
Specifically, SB 86 created a “Class 3” special law enforcement designation that allows former police to work at schools, although the officers wouldn’t be eligible for health care or retirement benefits. The officers’ hours would not be limited, although they would only be needed while classes are in session.
Only former police who worked in the state of New Jersey are eligible for the new program.
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