Assemblyman Sean Kean (R-Monmouth/Ocean) worked for several years to obtain critical state funding for security at nonpublic schools. He met with school personnel, municipal leaders, and other interested parties to discuss the need for security funding at nonpublic schools.

“For over two years, I have been part of a bipartisan effort to provide nonpublic schools with necessary funding for security measures,” said Assemblyman Kean.

In 2015, Kean sponsored A-4288, the “Secure Schools for All Children Act” which established a state aid program for security services, equipment or technology. This bill passed the General Assembly by a vote of 78-0. The legislation did not pass the Senate and was never signed into law. However, Governor Christie did include security funding for nonpublic schools as part of the budget so schools had funds available for the 2015-2016 school year.

“In October 2015, I held a public information session for local private school administrators and staff to give them a better understanding of how to apply for these security funds. It was a well-attended meeting and participants learned what services and technologies could be purchased, the procedure for applying for funds, and technical assistance,” remarked Kean.

During the next Legislative Session (2016-2017), Kean was one of many bipartisan sponsors of A-2689, the “Secure Schools for All Children Act” which provided $75 per nonpublic student for security services, equipment or technology. This legislation unanimously passed both the General Assembly and Senate and was signed into law by the Governor on September 6, 2016.

“I have been committed to the safety and security of all school children and staff throughout my career in the Legislature,” said Kean. “I was really encouraged that A-2689 was signed into law and a state aid program was established to provide this important funding. Before Governor Christie signed my bill into law there was no statutory mechanism guaranteeing security funding for private schools. I am proud of this important legislation.”

[Press Release]