Substitute Senate Bill No. 1216 aims to enhance school emergency response systems by amending existing laws related to school security infrastructure. The bill establishes a competitive grant program administered by the Departments of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Administrative Services, and Education, which will reimburse educational entities—including towns, regional educational service centers, state charter schools, and licensed child care centers—for expenses incurred since January 1, 2013, related to security infrastructure development or improvement. Notable insertions in the bill include provisions for funding the installation of emergency response communication systems and personal emergency communication devices, as well as training for school personnel on security infrastructure. The bill also mandates that 10% of the available funds be allocated specifically for nonpublic schools and licensed child care centers.

Additionally, the bill outlines the application process for educational authorities to apply for grants, with decisions based on the most recent school safety infrastructure standards. It prioritizes funding for schools with the greatest need for security infrastructure, particularly those lacking existing measures, and requires applicants to demonstrate collaboration with local first responders in developing emergency plans. The bill expands the eligible uses of the grant program to include purchasing hardware for emergency response communications and personal emergency communication devices, while maintaining the administration of the program under the relevant state departments. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and does not alter existing General Obligation bond authorizations, although it may lead to increased future General Fund debt service costs.