PolicyBrief
S.RES. 396
119th CongressSep 30th 2025
A resolution condemning the tragic act of violence on September 10, 2025, in Evergreen, Colorado, recognizing the victims, survivors, and responders, and expressing condolences and support to their families and their communities.
SENATE PASSED

This resolution condemns the September 10, 2025, school violence in Evergreen, Colorado, while honoring the victims, survivors, responders, and affected communities.

Michael Bennet
D

Michael Bennet

Senator

CO

LEGISLATION

Senate Formally Condemns Evergreen High Shooting, Honors First Responders and Community Heroes

This resolution is the Senate’s official statement regarding the tragic shooting at Evergreen High School in Colorado on September 10, 2025. It’s not a bill that creates new law or funds a program; it’s Congress doing what it does best in times of tragedy: formally acknowledging the event, condemning the violence, and offering its deepest sympathies and support to the affected community.

The Official Acknowledgment

The resolution starts by officially recognizing the horrific act of violence that took place and specifically notes that two people were hospitalized as a result. For the community of Evergreen, this provides an official record of the event and the trauma experienced. It’s a formal statement that the tragedy is seen and acknowledged at the highest level, which is important for communities navigating profound grief and recovery.

Praising the Rapid Response

A key detail in the resolution is the praise directed at the first responders. It specifically calls out the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and school security for their incredibly fast response, noting they arrived within two minutes of the lockdown being initiated. This highlights the critical role of preparedness and rapid law enforcement action in limiting potential casualties, a point that matters to every parent and school administrator across the country who worries about school safety protocols. It’s a moment of recognition for the people who train for the worst-case scenario.

Honoring the Everyday Heroes

Beyond law enforcement, the resolution makes a point to thank the everyday heroes: the educators, school staff, and even neighbors who stepped up to protect students during the crisis. It also recognizes the medical teams at CommonSpirit St. Anthony Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado who provided critical care. This section is essentially a public thank you note from the Senate to the teachers, nurses, and community members who showed extraordinary courage under pressure, reminding us that effective crisis response is a community-wide effort, not just a police action.

Affirming Community Support

In its closing, the resolution affirms that the violence has deeply and permanently affected the Evergreen community. It extends support to the families of victims and survivors and recognizes the strength shown by the community in the face of this tragedy. While a resolution doesn't provide funding or legislation, it serves as a powerful moral statement that every child deserves a safe educational environment—a principle every working parent juggling responsibilities and worrying about their kids can certainly get behind.