Torres’ school safety bill enters WA House
Washington Sen. Nikki Torres, R-Pasco, left, standing alongside Lori Aldaheff, holding photo, and Lake Washington High School students advocating for Alyssa's Law at a recent press conference
COURTESY PHOTO/OFFICE OF NIKKI TORRES
OLYMPIA – Sen. Nikki Torres’, R-Pasco, school safety bill, known as Alyssa’s Law, received a public hearing in the House after clearing the Senate on Wednesday, March 5.
The bipartisan legislation would require school districts to collaborate with local law enforcement to develop updated emergency response systems using evolving technology, including silent panic buttons, to ensure expedited response time.
Lori Alhadeff, a school safety advocate and founder of the nonprofit organization Make Our Schools Safe, joined Torres in spearheading Senate Bill 5004. Aldaheff’s daughter, Alyssa, was one of 17 victims of the 2018 Stoneman Douglas High School shooting.
“The principle of Alyssa's Law is simple: time equals life,” Alhadeff said. “This law directs wearable panic technology that directly links to law enforcement in life-threatening emergencies.”
Torres said most schools already have emergency response systems in place; however, the legislation would ensure they can upgrade their technology to include not only panic buttons but also live videos and remote-controlled access to doors.
“We want our kids to be safe in schools. This just gives them another option of having panic buttons if they want,” she said.
Ryan Shannon, director of public relations for the Moses Lake School District, emphasized that safety and security are top priorities.
According to Shannon, the district already has an emergency system with similar technological features through the Emergent 3 app. The app allows teachers and administrators to alert local law enforcement directly during emergencies, bypassing dispatch delays.
Grant County Sheriff Joey Kriete expressed support for the legislation, calling it a proactive step toward safeguarding schools.
“Implementing SB 5004 will ensure that Washington’s schools are equipped with the latest safety tools to protect students and teachers, fostering a secure learning environment for all,” Kriete said.
Aldaheff has been traveling around the country since 2020, advocating for Alyssa’s Law, which has already passed in seven states.
“I know that every time that panic button is pushed…” Alhadeff said. “Alyssa is saving lives.”