BY JAKE NEHER
Michigan Public Radio Network
State officials say students need new and better ways to report threats of school violence. Tuesday, they announced plans to create a new anonymous tip-line that would include a mobile app for tech-savvy teens.
The program would let students send in tips by phone, text message, email, or the mobile app, which accepts photos and videos.
Michigan State Police Director Kriste Etue said it's crucial to remove as many barriers as possible for teens with possibly life-saving information.
"They're all socially connected to their device. So we have to appeal to the young people today." Etue said.
Officials say the state would pay for the new service with a pool of money from court settlements paid to the state.
Lawmakers are also drafting legislation meant to make sure the system does not stick school districts with added costs. They say it would also ensure the tips are kept confidential.
Copyright 2013, MPRN