House Bill 7024, sponsored by Bulso, aims to enhance school safety in Tennessee by mandating that all public and private elementary and secondary schools be equipped with a specialized alarm system designed for active shooter situations. The bill specifies that the alarm system must have distinct characteristics, including a unique sound that differentiates it from other alarms, a loud volume to disorient potential shooters, bright flashing strobe lights, remote activation capabilities, and the ability to automatically dispatch law enforcement without using the 911 system.
Additionally, the bill provides for the Department of Education to offer grants to local education agencies (LEAs) and private school operators to assist with the costs associated with the installation and maintenance of these alarm systems, contingent upon appropriations from the General Assembly. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law, emphasizing the urgency of improving safety measures in schools.