HARRISBURG – This week, the Senate approved legislation to crack down on false emergency threats targeting schools, a move aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing the strain on emergency responders, according to Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32), who supported the measure.
Senate Bill 96 would establish new felony penalties for individuals who make hoax emergency reports involving educational institutions. If signed into law, making a false report of an emergency threat to a school would be classified as a third-degree felony, and courts would be allowed to impose financial penalties to recover the costs incurred by taxpayers for emergency response efforts.
“The safety of our community is paramount. This legislation is a critical step in holding malicious actors accountable, best protecting our schools and supporting our first responders by ensuring they are not burdened with the false threats of a prank,” Stefano said.
The legislation comes in response to a troubling rise in hoax threats made against schools across the commonwealth, causing fear among students and parents while diverting law enforcement and emergency personnel from real emergencies. Laurel Highlands High School in Fayette County was one of the Pennsylvania schools targeted by false emergency threats on March 29, 2023.
Senate Bill 96 is part of a broader effort to safeguard schools and hold bad actors accountable. The bill, which also passed the Senate in the previous legislative session, now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Amanda Cuteri, 717-787-7175