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 allowing school districts to include safety measures in their long-term facilities maintenance plans. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 123B.595, to require that facilities plans for schools receiving SHIELD grants include a safe schools plan detailing physical modifications for improved safety. Additionally, the bill specifies that school districts not receiving these grants may still incorporate a safe schools plan into their maintenance plans. The effective date for these provisions is set for plans submitted on or after August 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a grant program for school security systems, appropriating funds from the general fund to the commissioner of public safety for distribution to school districts and charter schools. The Minnesota School Safety Center will oversee the grant application process, ranking applicants based on their proposed security plans and ensuring that grants are awarded equitably across the state. The bill outlines specific components that security systems may include, such as bullet-resistant doors, emergency communication systems, and classroom duress alarms. It also mandates annual reporting on grant awards and expenditures to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of funds. This appropriation is a one-time allocation available until June 30, 2028.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 123B.595