Relating to public K-12 education; to amend Section 16-1-44, Code of Alabama 1975, providing for comprehensive school emergency operations plans; to require the participation of school resource officers and law enforcement agencies in regularly scheduled lockdown drills; and to designate the days on which lockdown drills are conducted as school safety and awareness days.
Impact
The impact of HB 42 on state laws is significant as it amends existing education safety protocols, specifically Section 16-1-44 of the Code of Alabama 1975. By introducing requirements for regular involvement of law enforcement and structured drills, the bill aims to develop a more vigilant and prepared school environment. The enforcement of these measures will ideally result in better preparedness for possible emergencies within schools, potentially reducing response times and improving outcomes during critical incidents.
Summary
House Bill 42 mandates the establishment of comprehensive school emergency operations plans within local school boards in Alabama. The legislation specifically requires that these plans include protocols for a variety of potential threats, including security-related incidents, severe weather, and fires. Additionally, it obligates the participation of school resource officers and law enforcement in regularly scheduled lockdown drills. This bill emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts between educational institutions and local law enforcement to enhance overall school safety.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 42 stem from concerns about the implications of increased law enforcement presence in schools. Critics argue that the presence of police during drills and in educational settings could lead to heightened anxiety among students and staff, particularly in the wake of conversations about police conduct during school activities. Conversely, proponents contend that such measures are essential for ensuring the safety of students and staff, framing the discussion around the necessity for schools to prepare adequately for emergencies and threats.
Public K-12 school security; School Security Program, established to require school security inspections and grading; School Security and Fire Safety Fund, established to provide grants; School Mapping Data Program, established to provide criteria for school maps; Department of Education and ALEA, authorized to adopt rules
Career and technical education in public K-12 schools; home school student participation, authorized; State Board of Education, required to adopt rules
Restoring Educational Advancement of Completing High School (REACH) Act, providing for a nontraditional high school diploma option for students 17 years of age and older who withdraw from school through the Adult Education Division of the Alabama Community College System; to provide for the sharing of data on students who drop out of high school; and to provide that participating students are eligible for driver's licenses
Alabama Department of Environmental Management; water well drillers, licenses and licensees, fees therefore, revised and further provides for; continuing education required
Resolve, Directing the Department of Education, Maine School Safety Center to Convene a Stakeholder Group to Develop Best Practices for Lockdown Drills and Active Shooter Drills and Allowing Parents to Opt Out of Active Shooter Drills for Their Children