Florida

Florida Gov. Wants to Boost Security at Jewish Schools

Florida Gov. Rick Scott wants to set aside another $1 million to beef up security at Jewish day schools around the state.

Scott on Monday said he would ask that legislators set aside money to pay for such items as video cameras, fences, bullet-proof glass, alarm systems and other safety equipment. The governor announced his proposal at Katz Hillel Day School of Boca Raton.

Legislators will consider the spending request during the 2018 session that starts in January. The Republican-controlled Legislature gave the Jewish schools $654,000 earlier this year.

Legislators pushed for the security upgrades after a wave of bomb threats against Jewish community centers and day schools.

"After Florida’s Jewish community received hateful threats last year, we saw the need to provide additional security so the children that attend Jewish Day Schools can learn without having to worry about feeling threatened. While last year’s investment will make a huge difference, we must continue to do more," Gov. Scott said in a statement.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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