Marino unveils bill to make universities active assailant training hubs

U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R-PA) on Sept. 13 introduced legislation that would provide grants to institutions of higher education (IHEs) for active assailant consulting and training programs.

The Active Assailant Training, Readiness, and Response Act, H.R. 6803, would establish the program within the U.S. Education Department. The Secretary of Education would be authorized to award grants to accredited IHEs that would use funds to operate training and response centers available to schools, hospitals and other institutions in their local areas, according to a summary released by Rep. Marino’s office.

“My legislation will ensure that vulnerable institutions such as schools and hospitals have the resources they need to prepare for and respond to active assailant incidents,” Rep. Marino said. “Accredited universities are a prime candidate to provide this training, as they are likely to have a high level of familiarity with many institutions within the region they will serve.”

If enacted, H.R. 6803 would require grant recipients to clearly define the region it would serve, according to the congressman’s summary. An IHE also would be required to provide consultation and training on topics including how to prepare for active assailant incidents; how to quickly respond to such incidents; and follow-up steps to provide assistance to people following an event, the summary said.

“One of the most important jobs of the federal government is ensuring the safety and security of all of our country’s citizens,” the lawmaker said. “Despite efforts undertaken by Congress, it is clear that more work needs to be done in this area.”

H.R. 6803 has been referred to the U.S. House Education and the Workforce Committee for consideration.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation,” said Rep. Marino last week.