PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1974

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1974

Introduced
1/31/24  

Caption

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security coordinator.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1974 is expected to have significant implications for state laws concerning school safety. By mandating the formation of a school safety and security coordinator, the bill seeks to standardize safety protocols across various districts, ensuring that every school adheres to minimum safety regulations set forth by state law. This coordinated approach is believed to enhance preparedness and response to security incidents, ultimately contributing to a safer school climate. Moreover, local districts may experience a shift in resource allocation to meet the requirements established by this bill, including funding for training and safety equipment.

Summary

House Bill 1974 focuses on enhancing school safety and security measures within educational institutions. The bill proposes the establishment of a dedicated school safety and security coordinator, whose responsibilities will include developing comprehensive safety plans, coordinating with local law enforcement, and ensuring compliance with state safety regulations. The bill aims to create a safer environment for students, educators, and staff by centralizing safety efforts and resources under a designated coordinator, thereby allowing schools to respond more effectively to potential threats and emergencies.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1974 appears to be supportive among various stakeholders, particularly parents, educators, and law enforcement agencies who prioritize student safety. Proponents argue that the bill addresses a critical need for improved safety protocols in schools, especially in light of recent incidents of violence and emergencies in educational settings. Conversely, some critics express concerns about potential costs associated with hiring adequate personnel and the existing funding challenges faced by many school districts, questioning the feasibility of the bill’s implementation without additional funding mechanisms.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 1974 center around its potential financial implications for school districts. While advocates emphasize its importance for enhancing student safety, opponents highlight the challenges of implementing such a mandate without sufficient state funding or support for necessary resources. Additionally, there are debates over the adequacy of training for coordinators and whether the proposed measures will effectively address the evolving landscape of school security threats. The discussions reflect broader societal concerns over school safety measures and the balance between ensuring security and managing fiscal constraints.

Latest PA HB1974 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB1974

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB634

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security coordinator.

PA HB1908

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security coordinator; and, in school security, further providing for duties of commission and providing for school security personnel.

PA SB907

In school safety and security, further providing for school

PA HB63

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security training.

PA HB2613

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security training.

PA SB930

In student supports, further providing for definitions; in school safety and security, further providing for definitions, for School Safety and Security Committee, for school safety and security assessment providers, for School Safety and Security Grant Program, for school safety and security coordinator, for school safety and security training and for reporting and memorandum of understanding; in school security, further providing for training, for school resource officers, for school security guards and for duties of commission; in Safe2Say Program, further providing for intent, for definitions, for Safe2Say Program and for annual report; in threat assessment, further providing for definitions, for threat assessment teams and for threat assessment guidelines, training and information materials; and making editorial changes.

PA SB1206

In school safety and security, providing for panic alerts.

PA SB541

In school safety and security, providing for panic alerts.

PA HB653

In school safety and security, providing for panic alerts.

PA HB1553

In duties and powers of boards of school directors, providing for suicide prevention hotline telephone number on student identification card; and, in school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security coordinator.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.