The bill amends Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws, titled "Health and Safety of Pupils," by introducing a new section, 16-21-24.1, which mandates that all public and private schools, as well as certified educational institutions, colleges, and universities with twenty or more staff members and students, develop, maintain, and annually review and update a comprehensive school safety and emergency response plan. This plan must be submitted by August 1 each year to the Department of Education, the chief of police or the highest-ranking officer of the local police department, and the director of public safety.

The bill specifies that these plans must include provisions ensuring immediate and unobstructed access to all school facilities, including buildings, classrooms, and grounds, for law enforcement and emergency medical personnel during emergencies. To satisfy this requirement, schools must implement a rapid access program for first responders, which may involve secure electronic entry systems or key access.

Local police chiefs are responsible for annually reviewing the submitted plans and may recommend changes or amendments. If a school or institution rejects or fails to implement any recommendations, the local chief of police must notify the Department of Education of the noncompliance by September 1 or as soon thereafter as discovered. The Department of Education, in consultation with the director of public safety, is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement and enforce compliance with these provisions. The act is set to take effect upon passage.