OLYMPIA, Wash. – Senate Bill 5004, known as “Alyssa’s Law,” was signed into law to enhance emergency response systems in K-12 schools across Washington.
The initiative, led by State Sen. Nikki Torres (R-Pasco), strives to improve school safety by implementing advanced systems such as silent panic alarms and real-time communication tools.
“This law gives students and staff a critical lifeline when every second counts,” said Sen. Torres in a release. “It ensures law enforcement can respond faster and more effectively when lives are on the line.”
Named in memory of Alyssa Alhadeff, a student who tragically lost her life during the 2018 Parkland shooting, Sen. Torres said the law honors her legacy by ensuring faster response times and improved coordination during emergencies.
Alyssa’s mother, Lori Alhadeff, praised the law, saying, “Every second matters in an emergency—and now, every school in this state will be better prepared to save lives.”
The bill mandates that school districts collaborate with local law enforcement to develop and implement these systems.
Progress must be reported to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction by October 1, with a statewide report due by December 1.
Torres also introduced Senate Bill 5003, proposing a grant program to fund physical security improvements in schools. She secured $6 million for school security grants in the state’s final capital budget.
“This legislation is about protecting students and giving families peace of mind,” Torres said. “School should be a place where kids can focus on learning, not worry about their safety.”
