The bill, known as the "Students Safe at School Act," establishes comprehensive guidelines for conducting active shooter drills and simulations in schools across Kansas. 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, with the option to opt their children out of participation. 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 from occurring during regular school hours when students are present, and it allows parents of high school students to opt their children into such simulations with written consent. Schools are also required to provide evidence-based violence prevention training for students in grades six through twelve 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 effective drill implementation. The bill also amends existing laws related to crisis drills in schools, ensuring that active shooter drills are conducted in accordance with the new provisions.

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