The proposed bill, known as the Educator Safety and Classroom Authority Act, aims to enhance the safety and authority of educators in South Carolina public schools by adding Article 14 to Chapter 63, Title 59 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. It defines key terms related to educator safety, outlines the authority of educators to manage classroom behavior, and establishes processes for the referral and removal of disruptive students. The bill mandates that local district boards of trustees revise their student and staff codes of conduct to align with the new provisions within one year of enactment. It also requires the State Board of Education to develop standards and model policies to support local districts in implementing these changes.

Additionally, the bill provides protections for educators, administrators, and staff from civil or criminal liability when acting in good faith to maintain a safe learning environment, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. It emphasizes the importance of training in classroom management and conflict resolution, and it requires the South Carolina Department of Education to assist districts in strengthening their codes of conduct and classroom management practices. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.