Press Conference

Senator McIlhinney Legislation Would Prevent Discrimination Against Military

HARRISBURG – Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-Bucks and Montgomery) introduced legislation today that would prohibit public school officials from discriminating against members of the Armed Forces.

Senator McIlhinney's legislation would prohibit any principal, superintendent or school official from denying any member of the military entry to school facilities. Military members would still be expected to comply with a school's visitor policy, but they could not be denied access because of their uniform.

The legislation stemmed from several incidents in which military members visiting friends and former teachers were denied access to school grounds due to their military uniforms. McIlhinney's bill would ensure that no school official could impose restrictions on wearing military uniforms on school property.

"It is reprehensible that certain school officials would prohibit these young men and women from wearing their uniform on public school grounds," McIlhinney said. "The members of our Armed Forces deserve our deepest appreciation for their service to our nation, and they should have every right to proudly display the uniforms that they have sacrificed so much to earn."

McIlhinney was joined by several members of Semper Fi Families, an organization that offers guidance and support to families of those serving in the military.

Contact:

Heather Cevasco
(215)489-5000