In response to the recent shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey announced a plan to make schools and communities safer by increasing mental and behavioral health resources, restricting access to firearms and tightening background checks.

The proposal comes just days after the National School Walkout that was organized by students and allies to demand Congress pass legislation to keep everybody safe from gun violence at schools, on the streets and in homes and places of worship.

The “Safe Arizona Schools Plan” calls for:

• Increased mental and behavioral health resources at schools
• Restricting access to firearms for individuals who pose a severe threat to themselves or others, while respecting the second amendment rights of law-abiding Arizonans
• Increased school resource officer and law enforcement presence at schools
• Enhanced background checks

The proposal also focuses upon the implementation of a Severe Threat Order of Protection (STOP) order. The STOP order will allow law enforcement or other specific individuals to seek an order prohibiting ability to purchase or access a gun if the person poses a significant threat to themselves or others. 

Governor Ducey issued the following statement regarding the plan: “Arizona can lead the nation in tackling the issue of school safety and the Safe Arizona Schools Plan is an aggressive approach that puts the safety of our schools and communities first. This plan has been shaped by the lessons we’ve learned from past tragedies and by meaningful solutions we’ve heard from Arizonans across the state. School safety is a top priority for the entire state and we are committed to taking swift and decisive action to increase the safety of our communities.”