S.B. No. 57 aims to enhance the safety of individuals with disabilities or impairments in public schools during mandatory drills and emergency situations. The bill amends Section 37.108 of the Education Code to require school districts to include specific provisions in their multihazard emergency operations plans. These provisions must ensure equal access to safety for students and personnel with disabilities, based on recommendations and guidelines established by the commissioner. Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts document accommodations for students with individualized education programs or plans under Section 504 during drills and emergencies, and it emphasizes the need for effective communication regarding these accommodations among staff and safety committees.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the composition and responsibilities of the school safety and security committee outlined in Section 37.109. It now requires the inclusion of a special education administrator and mandates that the committee meet regularly to provide recommendations for updating emergency plans to include accommodations for students with disabilities. The bill also establishes a timeline for the commissioner of education to adopt the necessary rules and guidelines by June 1, 2026. Overall, S.B. No. 57 seeks to ensure that public schools are better prepared to protect all students, particularly those with disabilities, during emergencies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)
Engrossed: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)
House Committee Report: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)
Enrolled: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)