Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2676

Introduced
1/17/22  
Refer
1/17/22  

Caption

Armed educator; create Mississippi School Protection Act.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance school security by enabling armed security personnel in educational institutions, which can potentially deter violent incidents. It introduces civil immunity for these designated team members, protecting them from lawsuits should they act in defense of school safety during the reasonable exercise of their duties. Additionally, this legislation requires that participating members undergo specific training, including firearms safety, active shooter response, and other defensive tactics to ensure a degree of preparedness for emergency situations.

Summary

Senate Bill 2676, also known as the Mississippi School Protection Act, establishes a framework that allows designated and trained employees within schools to carry concealed firearms for the protection of students and staff. The bill defines 'school' broadly, encompassing public and private educational institutions, from elementary schools to universities. It sets forth the conditions under which a school-protection program can be created, allowing local governing bodies to collaborate with school administrators and law enforcement in the establishment and operation of these programs.

Contention

Critics of SB2676 argue that arming school employees may not effectively address the root causes of school violence. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential risks associated with introducing firearms into educational environments, particularly the possibility of accidents or inappropriate use of weapons. Furthermore, the requirement for training and certification creates a financial burden for schools, given that the bill permits the charging of a certification fee of up to $350, which could lead to disparities in armed protection across different districts, depending on their funding capabilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB532

Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act; create.

MS SB2742

Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act; enact.

MS HB1120

"Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act"; create to allow governing bodies of schools to designate employees to carry concealed firearms.

MS SB2079

MS School Safety Guardian Act; create.

MS SB2743

School Safety Guardian Program; establish.

MS HB564

Mississippi Prison Education Reform Act of 2022; create.

MS HB4130

"Mississippi Student Funding Formula"; create to provide funding mechanism for public schools.

MS HB838

Mississippi Tianeptine and Kratom Consumer Protection Act; create.

MS HB1254

Mississippi Firearms Parental Amnesty Act; create.

MS HB621

Firearms Protection Act; create.

Similar Bills

MS SB2079

MS School Safety Guardian Act; create.

MS HB532

Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act; create.

MS HB1120

"Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act"; create to allow governing bodies of schools to designate employees to carry concealed firearms.

MS HB529

Department of Public Safety; revise various provisions.

MS HB807

Concealed firearm; clarify prohibition for those declared mentally incompetent by courts.

MS HB487

Concealed firearm; clarify prohibition for those declared mentally incompetent by courts.

MS HB80

Concealed firearms; clarify prohibition for mentally incompetent.

MS SB2743

School Safety Guardian Program; establish.