This bill mandates that by June 30th of the 2026-2027 school year, each board of education and board of trustees of charter schools or renaissance school projects in New Jersey must install at least one exterior key box at every school building. The key box must meet or exceed the Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1037 or another recognized industry standard for antitheft devices. The installation location must be determined in collaboration with emergency responders to ensure quick access during emergencies. The key box is required to contain keys and access control devices necessary for accessing all buildings and rooms on school grounds.

Additionally, the bill allows for exemptions from the key box installation requirement if the board of education or trustees can demonstrate that they have implemented alternative emergency access plans approved by the Commissioner of Education. The costs associated with the installation or replacement of key boxes will be covered by the State, and affected school entities can apply for reimbursement for expenses incurred after the bill's effective date.