This bill amends Section 33-512 of the Idaho Code to enhance school safety measures and establish new requirements for school districts. Key provisions include the requirement for school districts to develop and maintain a safe environment for students and employees by implementing a system of background checks for individuals with unsupervised contact with students, including checks against the Idaho sex offender central registry. Additionally, each school must create and maintain an emergency operations plan, which must be approved by the school board and reviewed annually in coordination with local emergency response agencies. Furthermore, all school district staff are required to undergo initial and annual emergency operations training.

The bill also includes the deletion of previous language that mandated a system for cross-checking contractors against the statewide sex offender registry and the requirement for schools to meet annually with emergency responders to update safety plans. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2025, and it declares an emergency to expedite its implementation. Overall, the amendments aim to strengthen the safety protocols within Idaho schools, ensuring a more secure environment for both students and staff.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-512