WATERBURY, Conn. (WTIC) - The call to keep guns out of classrooms ramped up again on Tuesday as Fifth District Congresswoman Jahana Hayes has introduced a measure that would prohibit the use of federal funds toward arming teachers.
Lawmakers, students, and teachers on hand at a news conference in Waterbury say more guns aren't the answer to keeping schools safe, even in light of recent school shootings.
Tara Volpe, with Connecticut Against Gun Violence, pointed to the frequency of firearm accidents, a danger she argues could become greater by including guns in schools.
"Additionally firearm accidents happen all the time. Increasing the amount of guns in any environment also increases the likelihood of those accidents."
17-year-old Breanna Arce, a student at Waterbury Career Academy, said many young people have witnessed violence firsthand, and staring at a teacher's gun wouldn't help. "It is very triggering for many students who have seen family members and friends get shot right in front of their own eyes... Why would we want to bring [guns] to the classroom, introduce it to be seen in schools?"
Hayes' measure has been referred to the House Judiciary and Education Labor Committees.
U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has reportedly said in the past she would no longer prohibits school districts from using federal money to purchase guns, if they so choose.