The bill, known as the "Students Safe at School Act," establishes comprehensive guidelines for conducting active shooter drills and simulations in Kansas schools. It defines key terms such as "active shooter drill" and "active shooter simulation," and sets forth standards for drills to ensure they are accessible, developmentally appropriate, culturally aware, trauma-informed, and inclusive of students with various needs. The bill mandates that no student shall be required to participate in an active shooter drill that does not meet these standards, and parents must be notified at least 24 hours in advance of such drills, with the option to opt their children out. Additionally, the bill requires schools to provide mental health support following drills and to review the efficacy and impact of these drills annually.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits active shooter simulations during regular school hours and allows parents of high school students to opt their children into such simulations with written consent. It also mandates that students in grades six through twelve receive at least one hour of evidence-based violence prevention training annually. The legislation emphasizes the importance of student involvement in safety planning and outlines the responsibilities of the state department of education in developing training options and guidelines for measuring the effectiveness of drills. The bill amends existing laws related to crisis drills in schools and repeals outdated provisions, ensuring a more structured and supportive approach to school safety.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 31-133
As Amended by Senate Committee: 31-133