Iowa House Bill HF152

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to school resource officers by establishing a rural school security grant program and making appropriations.

Impact

The establishment of the rural school security grant program under HF152 is significant as it aims to centralize resources for safety measures across smaller school districts that may lack adequate funding otherwise. By facilitating the hiring of school resource officers, the bill aims to enhance the security and safety environment within these schools, potentially impacting crime rates and emergency response capabilities in rural areas. The bill reflects a growing concern regarding school safety, suggesting a proactive approach to creating safer educational spaces in less populated regions.

Summary

House File 152 introduces a rural school security grant program with the objective of enhancing safety in schools that have a basic enrollment of 1,000 pupils or less. This program will provide funds for the hiring and equipping of school resource officers (SROs) within these smaller districts. The proposed budget for this initiative includes an appropriation of $4 million from the state's general fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023. Under the program, eligible school districts can apply for grants, which would be awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, and are limited to a maximum of $20,000 or 20% of their specified funding needs for the SRO position, depending on which is lower.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HF152 may arise in the context of how the grant funds are allocated and the criteria used for selections. Some may argue that the limited budget could mean not all eligible districts receive the funding they need, leading to disparities in school safety resources. Furthermore, discussions surrounding the necessity and effectiveness of having resource officers in schools versus alternative mental health and safety measures could become a focal point, influencing public sentiments and legislative debates.