Common Sense Added to School Zero Tolerance

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Governor Charlie Crist signed off on putting "common sense" into zero-tolerance policies designed to keep children safe at schools.

At at bill signing ceremony at Robert E. Lee High School, the governor praised the changes as being in the best interests of students and taxpayers.

"It doesn't punish those who should not be punished," said Crist.

Children no longer can be be arrested for minor offenses like petty theft, drawing pictures of guns or bringing a plastic butter knife to school.

State Senator Stephen Wise of Jacksonville helped sponsor the bill that faced no opposition in the House and Senate.

"It's about $750 to run somebody into the court and do all that kind of stuff for goofy things," said Wise, referring to the cost of arresting children for minor violations.

The Department of Juvenile Justice applauded a change in the law.

Local school districts must now define in zero-tolerance policies what will be considered major and minor offenses.

The change in the law will have no impact on students caught with weapons, drugs or involved in major fights.

While in town, the Governor also signed a bill affecting property appraisals and homestead exemption. CLICK HERE for more.

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