If this bill becomes law, it will establish the "Save Our Children School Safety Program" within the Arizona Department of Education (ADE), allowing certified school employees at eligible schools to possess and carry firearms on school grounds. The bill mandates the development of uniform training and certification standards by the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) in consultation with ADE. It also creates a fund to support reimbursements for training and safety equipment for eligible schools and individuals, ensuring that the funds are continuously appropriated and exempt from lapsing.

The bill modifies existing statutes by allowing school administrators to authorize employees to carry firearms under specific conditions, including compliance with training and certification requirements. It also emphasizes the confidentiality of personal identifying information for participating employees and provides legal protections against civil or criminal liability for actions taken in defense during crises. Additionally, it requires regular reporting on the program's implementation and effectiveness, including the number of certified employees and available funds, thereby enhancing accountability and oversight.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-249.08, 15-341, 41-1822, 35-190, 13-3102, 15-717.01, 15-701, 15-701.01, 15-481, 15-491, 15-342, 15-1224, 15-1125, 15-1126, 15-1223, 13-3108, 13-3120, 15-764, 15-761, 13-706, 13-105, 15-157, 15-107, 2008-2009, 39-101, 36-2267, 3-365, 41-5701.02, 41-5711, 15-1102
House Engrossed Version: 15-249.08, 15-341, 41-1822, 35-190, 13-3102, 15-717.01, 15-701, 15-701.01, 15-481, 15-491, 15-342, 15-1224, 15-1125, 15-1126, 15-1223, 13-3108, 13-3120, 15-764, 15-761, 13-706, 13-105, 15-157, 15-107, 2008-2009, 39-101, 36-2267, 3-365, 41-5701.02, 41-5711, 15-1102