The bill enhances school safety in Florida by expanding the existing Chris Hixon, Coach Aaron Feis, and Coach Scott Beigel Guardian Program to include child care facilities. It requires sheriffs to establish a guardian program with specific training and screening standards for security personnel, while placing the financial responsibility for the program on child care facilities or security agencies, although sheriffs may waive fees. The legislation also revises firearm requirements for school guardians and security guards, outlines their training and certification processes, and mandates the integration of panic alert systems and digital maps into public safety infrastructure.

Additionally, the bill imposes new reporting requirements for sheriffs, school districts, and child care facilities regarding the training and certification of security personnel, with penalties for non-compliance. It establishes a framework for child care facilities to partner with law enforcement for safe-school officers and introduces a statewide behavioral threat management process. The bill also sets new access control measures for school campuses, requiring that all gates and access points remain closed and locked during school hours, and mandates that classrooms be locked when occupied. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1470 Filed: 30.15, 1006.07, 1006.121
S 1470 c1: 30.15, 1006.07, 1006.121
S 1470 e1: 30.15, 1006.07, 1006.121
S 1470 e2: 30.15, 1006.07
S 1470 er: 30.15, 1006.07