SPONSOR: Costlow
This bill outlines safety and security measures for public school buildings and provides definitions for "Bullet-Resistant security laminate" and "Riot-resistant Security Laminate" as a film resistant based on specific standards.
The bill requires that all school districts implement safety and security compliance standards for all attendance centers. Access points must be secured by design, maintained, and appropriately monitored.
Alphanumeric characters must be displayed on exterior doors. Standards for primary entrances, construction of exterior doors and windows, and roof access door are specified. As are standards for all ground-level windows, interior doors with access to gathering spaces, and locking mechanisms. Specified windows and doors must be covered in either bullet proof or riot proof laminate as specified.
School districts are required to conduct weekly inspections of exterior doors, report findings, and maintain certifications of compliance. These standards must be implemented beginning in the 2026-27 school year. Existing security laminate not compliant with standards must be upgraded by July 1, 2026 and districts must have a contractor procured by this date to be in compliance.
The bill creates a matching grant program to assist school districts in implementing safety and security projects. School districts can apply for matching grants to cover 50% of the project cost beginning in the 2026-27 school year, beginning July 1, 2027 districts may only use Classroom Trust Fund proceeds for school safety provisions until the district is in compliance.
Beginning July 1, 2029, noncompliance will result in a school district being classified as unaccredited by the State Board of Education.
The program and its provisions will automatically sunset six years after the effective date.
This bill is similar to HCS HB 1761 (2024).
Statutes affected: