U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) is renewing calls to repeal the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, arguing that the federal law leaves schools vulnerable by disarming law-abiding staff and security personnel.
Massie introduced the Safe Students Act (H.R. 5066), which would eliminate the law signed by President George H.W. Bush.
“Soft Targets” for Mass Shooters
“My Safe Students Act, HR 5066, would repeal the dangerous Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, ending the default federal policy of making schools soft targets,” Massie posted on X.
The congressman said repeal would allow states and school boards to set their own firearm policies without federal interference.
Support from Parkland Victim’s Family
Hunter Pollack, whose sister Meadow was killed in the 2018 Parkland school shooting, voiced support for strengthening school defense measures rather than expanding gun-free zones.
“After Meadow was killed, my family decided, let’s do what’s practical. Let’s harden our schools, let’s work on fixing the mental health crisis in Florida. And let’s work with law enforcement officers to make sure they have the right training,” Pollack told Florida’s Voice.
He argued that 92% of mass shootings happen in gun-free zones. “By getting rid of gun-free zones, I mean getting rid of the signs that say ‘this is a gun-free zone,’ because it’s like telling a mass shooter to walk right in because no one’s there to defend the kids in the school.”
Gun Rights Groups Back Bill
Gun Owners of America endorsed Massie’s proposal, writing on social media: “Congress needs to abandon the failed federal gun-free schools policy & arm willing teachers instead!”
