BOSTON – The Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security heard testimony on Monday on S.2514/H.4155 – An Act to allow temporary door-locking devices in public buildings. The bill is sponsored by local state Senator Michael Moore and co-sponsored in the House by Representatives by Jeffrey Turco.
The bill proposes allowing public schools and other buildings to use temporary door locking devices during emergencies, such as active shooter situations. These devices, which attach to doors at the floor or ceiling level, offer enhanced protection compared to standard door latches that can be easily compromised.
Current regulations typically classify these devices as obstructions to exits, often leading to their disapproval by Fire Marshals and building inspectors. The bill seeks to address this by proposing a statewide exemption, enabling all public buildings in Massachusetts to use these devices if desired, standardizing the approach across different localities.
The bill has garnered significant support from school safety advocates, educators, and parents, particularly due to the proven effectiveness of these devices. Temporary door locking devices were credited with saving lives during the 2021 Oxford High School shooting in Michigan.
Following the presentation of both verbal and written testimony on the bill, the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will deliberate and decide whether to report the bill back to the legislative body with a favorable or unfavorable recommendation.
“In the horrific event that a shooter targets a Massachusetts public school, we must make sure teachers and students have tools available to protect themselves and minimize the risk of injury,” said state Senator Michael Moore. “Numerous studies have shown that barricading classroom doors during a school shooting is one of the most effective ways of protecting those inside, but barricading takes time, organization, and able-bodied individuals who can move heavy furniture. Temporary door locking devices, on the other hand, can be activated in moments and provide nearly the same level of protection.”
The full text of the proposed bill is available.
