The bill amends the Fire Prevention Code to enhance safety protocols in schools, specifically regarding fire and tornado drills. It mandates that the chief administrative officer and teachers of all schools, including state-supported institutions, conduct monthly fire drills and maintain records of these drills. The number of required fire drills has been adjusted, with a minimum of four drills now required each school year, down from eight, and specific timelines for conducting these drills have been established. Additionally, schools must conduct a minimum of two tornado safety drills each year, with at least one occurring in March.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for documentation and communication regarding safety drills. Schools must post completed drill documentation on their websites within 30 school days, including details such as the date, type of drill, and signatures of responsible personnel. The bill also emphasizes the need for schools to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan by the 2025-2026 school year, which includes the use of automated external defibrillators and training for staff. Overall, the amendments aim to improve emergency preparedness and response in educational settings.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 29.19