The "School Safety and Security Act"; establishes penalties for certain criminal acts committed on school property.
Impact
This bill will amend existing statutes within New Jersey's Title 2C, addressing the lack of specific penalties related to school safety and security. By introducing these new provisions, it directly addresses concerns that have arisen in the wake of increasing incidents of violence and disruption in schools. The law will bolster protections for school property, thereby limiting unauthorized access and protecting students during emergencies. The stipulation that certain information related to school safety plans cannot be publicly disclosed further underscores the intent to safeguard these protocols from potential threats.
Summary
The bill A172, known as the 'School Safety and Security Act,' establishes criminal penalties for various acts that threaten the safety and security of schools. Specifically, it designates several actions as crimes of the fourth degree, including unauthorized entry onto school property, tampering with school security devices, and interfering with school safety protocols. The aim of this legislation is to enhance the safety measures employed by schools and deter behaviors that could compromise student and staff safety.
Contention
While the bill aims to tighten security in schools, it may also generate discussion regarding the implications of criminalizing behaviors related to school safety. Opponents may argue that some provisions could inadvertently penalize well-intentioned actions, such as students or parents attempting to access school facilities in emergencies. Furthermore, the limitations placed on public access to safety plans could raise transparency issues regarding school safety measures. The balance between safety and civil liberties, particularly in how schools manage their emergency protocols and conduct drills, may thus become a focal point of debate.
Requires certain documentation of needs of students with disabilities during school security drills and emergency situations and in school security plans; requires staff training on needs of students with disabilities in emergency planning.
Prohibits use of private funds and personnel in governmental offices and procedures pertaining to administration of elections; establishes crimes and penalties for violations.
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
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.
Directs Attorney General to provide annual training to public and nonpublic school students and staff on roles and responsibilities before, during, and after school emergencies.