Sandy Hook shooting: Sen. Boxer proposes using National Guard for school security

Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) wants governors across the US to have access to National Guard troops for school security in the wake of the shooting in Newtown, Conn., according to Politico.

On Friday, 20-year-old Adam Lanza shot and killed his mother before going on a shooting rampage at Sandy Hook Elementary school. 26 children and adults were killed in the massacre.

More from GlobalPost: Most Newtown schools reopen after Sandy Hook shooting, 1 remains closed after threat

Politico reported Boxer said the legislation is modeled after a previous law in which Guard troops were called in to help with security at the border.

Currently, US governors have the ability to send troops into a school but this legislation would enable them to get federal funds to cover the expense.

The Los Angeles Times said the Save Our Schools Act would also allow the governors to decide how to use troops in the school vicinity.

“I believe in protecting our schools with trained law enforcement,” Boxer said at press conference on Capitol Hill. “This proposal is an answer to that proposal.”

More from GlobalPost: Sandy Hook shooting: Newtown community tells media 'Enough is enough'

Kickstart The World’s fundraising drive!

The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.

Make a gift today to help us raise $67,000  by the end of the year and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer to our goal!