This bill aims to enhance school safety by mandating the presence of specific safety equipment in both private and public schools, including charter schools. It amends existing statutes to redefine the purpose of grants awarded by the Office of Safe Schools, allowing for the improvement of school safety and security. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "ballistic shield" and "breaching tool," and requires each school to have at least one of each on campus for use during emergencies. The Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Law Enforcement, is tasked with establishing minimum specifications for this equipment.

Additionally, the bill outlines training requirements for school personnel on the safe use of the safety equipment and mandates annual reporting to the Office of Safe Schools to ensure compliance. Schools are authorized to utilize existing grants from the School Hardening Grant Program or other available funds to meet these requirements. The legislation also allows for random audits by the Office of Safe Schools to verify that the necessary equipment is present and functional. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1174 Filed: 1001.212