Child Safety Accounts could offer lifeline to thousands of students

Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., has introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives that could improve the lives of thousands of children in the District of Columbia by offering them alternatives to unsafe school environments.

Under his proposal, Child Safety Accounts would be available to all D.C. students facing a “safety issue” at school after their parents file a request with school administrators. These issues include bullying, sexual misconduct, harassment, abuse, fighting or physical assaults on the student, and concerns over gang activity or drug usage at school. Families could also receive a CSA if there is unease over food allergy or other health-related safety issues.