The proposed bill would update current statutes by significantly expanding the School Safety Program to include new provisions that support the costs of placing school safety officers (SSOs) on campuses and allow for alternative funding proposals for safety technology and infrastructure improvements. It mandates that each school district and charter school train officers to interact with children with disabilities and develop emergency response plans. Additionally, the bill exempts school building blueprints and floor plans from public record requirements, enhancing security measures.

Moreover, the bill would apply existing proposal requirements for school resource officers (SROs) to SSOs, expand the definition of SROs, and require that emergency response plans be developed in collaboration with local law enforcement. It mandates that schools receiving program funds conduct safety assessments every five years and train officers on relevant legal and mental health issues. Overall, these updates aim to enhance school safety measures, particularly for children with disabilities, and ensure that schools are better equipped to handle emergencies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-120.05, 15-154, 15-154.02, 15-155, 15-183, 15-761, 41-2534, 35-190, 15-341