2nd day of school safety roundtable discussion

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 26) - Mental health and gun regulations were the focus of the second of three round table discussions led by Texas Governor Greg Abbott on school safety. The meetings were organized after the deadly shooting at Santa Fe High School that killed eight students and two teachers.

The meeting was at the Texas State Capitol. At the table were school officials, state lawmakers and representatives from organizations on both sides of gun reform including Texas Gun Sense and the Texas State Rifle Association. There were also mental health experts who work in various settings including law enforcement, the juvenile justice system, community clinics, schools and hospitals.

The suggestions about mental health included screening programs, access to counseling both in and out of schools, and teaching students self awareness and personal skills.

“[School violence] it is preventable," said Dr. Jeff Temple, a psychologist with University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston. "We can be there in schools — high schools with approaches that focus on healthy relationships, teaching healthy relationship skills just like teach English and math.” Temple was at Wednesday’s round table. 

As for gun regulations, Abbott said the participants discussed strengthening laws around safe gun storage, improving background checks, and requirements around reporting stolen and lost guns.

Gov. Abbott added there are some regulations he may support. 

“And, that is to shorten the time period in the court system of reporting the adjudication of a mental health order, and the other is reporting of loss or theft of a gun,” said Gov. Abbott.

The final round table discussion will focus on helping victims and their families.