House Bill 399, also known as the "Protecting Tennessee Schools and Events Act," aims to enhance school safety in Tennessee by establishing a pilot grant program for local education agencies (LEAs) in distressed or at-risk counties. The program will provide financial assistance for the purchase of portable walk-through metal detectors, ensuring that all schools have equitable access to essential safety equipment. The bill outlines specific requirements for the detectors, including their operational capabilities, design features, and maintenance protocols, to ensure they effectively enhance security during school hours and at events.

The legislation mandates that the Department of Education establish the grant program by July 1, 2025, with the intent to provide each qualifying LEA with three portable detectors, capped at $16,000 each. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for vendor-led data collection and annual reporting to assess the effectiveness of the detectors in improving school safety. It emphasizes the importance of training for school personnel on the proper use of the detectors and requires compliance with privacy laws in data collection. Overall, the bill seeks to address disparities in school safety resources and promote a secure learning environment for all students.