In an era where the unthinkable has become all too common, Georgia lawmakers have taken a bold and necessary step to protect students and teachers across the state. With the passage of SB 17, also known as Ricky and Alyssa’s Law, every public school classroom in Georgia will now be equipped with an emergency panic alert system—a direct, life-saving line to law enforcement when seconds count.
This isn’t just legislation. It’s a lifeline.
And in the words of Atlanta Accident Lawyer Jonathan Perazzo, who regularly monitors legislative changes that impact families across Georgia:
“This is a serious move toward protecting kids and teachers. In a crisis, it gives them an immediate way to call for help—without delay and without confusion.”
What Does SB 17 Actually Do?
SB 17 mandates that every public elementary and secondary school classroom in Georgia be equipped with an emergency panic alert system. This isn’t a recommendation — it’s the law. And it’s reshaping how schools respond to danger, one classroom at a time.
These panic systems can take various forms — from wall-mounted buttons and mobile phone apps to wearable alert devices on teachers or staff. But no matter the technology, the requirements are clear and non-negotiable:
Seamless Integration with School Safety Plans:
Technology doesn’t work in isolation — it must function within the school’s broader emergency protocols. SB 17 ensures that panic alerts will sync with existing lockdown procedures, intercom announcements, and campus-wide alerts to maximize coordination during a crisis.
Instant Alerts to Law Enforcement:
In an emergency, there’s no time for red tape. These systems must send immediate notifications to 911 or local police, eliminating the need to find a phone, dial, and explain the situation under stress. With a single press, help is on the way.
Precise Location Tracking:
When chaos breaks out in a large school building, knowing exactly where the threat is can save lives. The new systems must provide real-time location data, pinpointing the exact classroom or hallway where the panic alert was triggered. This gives first responders a tactical advantage the moment they arrive.
Why Is It Called Ricky and Alyssa’s Law?
This law carries the names of two students who tragically lost their lives in school shootings: Ricky Dixon and Alyssa Alhadeff. Alyssa was one of the 17 victims at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida—a tragedy that shook the nation and highlighted fatal delays in emergency response. By naming the law after them, Georgia sends a clear message: we remember, and we’re acting.
When Tragedy Strikes, Timing Is Everything
In any emergency—whether it’s an intruder, active shooter, or life-threatening medical incident—time is the most valuable currency. Every second lost navigating red tape, finding a phone, or figuring out what to do next could mean the difference between life and death. The panic button law cuts through the noise. It gives teachers and staff one clear action in a moment of chaos: press the button, get help. Fast.
Why This Matters to Georgia Families
At The Perazzo Law Firm, we’re not just car accident lawyers—we’re advocates for safety, justice, and prevention across every corner of Georgia. From the highways to the hallways, we believe every family deserves to feel protected and informed. This law isn’t about fear. It’s about giving educators the tools they need, and giving parents the peace of mind they deserve. Because while we can’t prevent every crisis, we can be prepared to respond faster, smarter, and more effectively.
SB 17 is more than a bill—it’s a promise. A promise that Georgia refuses to stay silent in the face of tragedy. A promise that every student, from Savannah to Atlanta, deserves to feel safe in school. At The Perazzo Law Firm, we stand with the families who fought for this law—and we’ll continue fighting for safer communities across Florida, Georgia, and Texas. If you have questions about how new legislation impacts your rights or your family, contact us today for a free consultation. ? 888-PERAZZO | Se habla español | Available 24/7
