This bill establishes that school districts in New Jersey cannot prohibit active or retired law enforcement officers, as well as registered security officers, from carrying firearms while performing their school security duties, provided they are authorized under state law to do so. The legislation specifically addresses situations where school districts enter into agreements for security services with these officers, including safe schools resource officers and Class Three special law enforcement officers.

The intent of the bill arises from community concerns following recent school shootings, where there has been a push for increased security measures in schools. Many residents have expressed a desire for armed officers to enhance safety, yet some school boards have previously restricted these officers from carrying firearms. This bill aims to eliminate such restrictions, ensuring that authorized security personnel can carry firearms on school premises while fulfilling their duties.