This bill aims to enhance school safety in Minnesota by modifying existing provisions related to violence prevention and reporting requirements. It mandates that school districts and charter schools conduct annual violence prevention training for middle and high school students, which must include information on recognizing warning signs of potential harm and utilizing anonymous threat reporting systems. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions for "active shooter incident" and "active shooter threat," and requires schools to report such incidents electronically to the commissioner of education and the Minnesota Fusion Center, detailing the nature of the incidents and the responses taken.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates funds for violence prevention and physical security enhancement grants to schools, with a focus on developing anonymous threat reporting systems. It stipulates that grant applications must be submitted in a specified manner, and grants will be awarded to ensure geographic diversity across the state. The Department of Public Safety is authorized to retain a portion of the funds for administration and technical assistance, and annual reports on grant distribution and usage will be required. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster school safety measures and improve response protocols in the event of violent incidents.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 121A.038, 121A.06, 299C.055