The proposed bill, known as the "Safe Haven In Every Local District (SHIELD) Act," aims to enhance student and staff safety in Minnesota schools by mandating that each school district's long-term facilities maintenance plan includes a safe schools plan. This plan must identify physical modifications to improve safety at each school site, in addition to existing requirements for health and safety programs. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 123B.595, by inserting provisions that require these safety measures and establishing a timeline for plan approval. It also specifies that the new requirements will take effect for plans submitted on or after August 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates funds for school security grants to be administered by the commissioner of public safety, allowing school districts and charter schools to apply for financial assistance to implement comprehensive security systems. The Minnesota School Safety Center will rank grant applicants based on their proposed security plans and ensure that funds are distributed equitably across the state. The bill outlines various components that may be included in the security systems, such as bullet-resistant doors, emergency communication systems, and training for staff. This one-time appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, and aims to bolster the overall safety infrastructure within Minnesota's educational facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 123B.595