Boyle Calls for Tighter School Security on Election Day

State Sen. Phil Boyle (R–Bay Shore) will introduce the "Secure Our Schools Act," legislation the he hopes to pass to help lessen the risk of having public access to schools that also act as polling places.

"As a State Senator, there is no duty I take more seriously than the future and safety of our children," said Boyle at a press conference outside Forest Avenue Elementary School in West Babylon on Thursday. "The hectic nature of polling places on election days can expose our students to potential security risks that we need to evaluate, especially in the wake of Newtown.

"This can, and should, be prevented. That is why I am introducing the 'Secure Our Schools Act,' which will solicit the input of experts so we can make an informed progress toward making our schools safer."

The legislation calls for a study to be conducted by the State Education Department and to give recommendations within six months, just in time, the senator said he hopes, for Election Day in November.

Boyle was joined by West Babylon Superintendent Anthony Cacciola as well as West Babylon School Board President Diane Thiel.

"I think the legislation is excellent," Cacciola said. "Anything we can do to increase safety in our schools for our kids  is  a plus. During a major election, we incur additional costs, so if this is something that can be helped on the State level, we’re all for it."