Senate File 583 establishes new provisions for information sharing among governmental entities and schools regarding student safety, particularly for those experiencing emotional disturbances or mental illness. The bill defines "covered entities" to include various governmental agencies and service providers, while excluding the judicial branch. It mandates that these entities share necessary records and information upon request when acting as part of a multidisciplinary school safety assessment team, which is established to assess and intervene in situations where a student poses a threat to safety. The bill also emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration among these entities to ensure the well-being of students.
Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to require compliance with the new information-sharing provisions for charter schools and nonpublic schools, aligning them with school districts. It introduces a new section that allows for the establishment of multidisciplinary school safety assessment teams, which can include law enforcement, mental health professionals, and school officials. These teams are granted immunity from liability when acting in good faith to report or investigate potential threats, and they are authorized to request records from the state court administrator to ensure student safety. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety and support systems for students in Iowa's educational institutions.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 22.7, 29D.1
Reprinted: 22.7, 29D.1
Enrolled: 22.7, 29D.1