Substitute Senate Bill No. 1382 aims to improve school safety by establishing a grant program administered by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) for local and regional boards of education to create school mapping data services. Effective July 1, 2025, eligible boards can apply for grants to develop mapping data that is compatible with public safety software, verified for accuracy, and includes detailed site-specific labels. The bill mandates that this mapping data be provided at no additional cost and remain permanently accessible to both school boards and public safety agencies. Additionally, the bill amends the existing School Security Infrastructure Competitive Grant Program (SSICG) to include school mapping data services as an eligible expense, thereby broadening the scope of the program to enhance emergency response capabilities.

The bill also introduces new requirements for grant eligibility, including the necessity for schools to collaborate with local first responders in developing emergency plans and conducting security assessments. It prioritizes funding for schools with the greatest need for security infrastructure improvements and specifies that 10% of available funds must be allocated to nonpublic schools and licensed child care centers. Furthermore, the bill outlines a grant distribution system based on town wealth and population rankings, ensuring equitable funding. Starting January 1, 2027, DESPP is required to submit an annual report to the Public Safety Committee detailing grant applications and recipients, thereby ensuring transparency and accountability in the program's implementation.