Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2440

Introduced
2/12/24  
Introduced
2/12/24  

Caption

A bill for an act requiring the department of public safety, in collaboration with the department of education and the department of homeland security and emergency management, to convene a task force to study and make recommendations related to the safety and security standards of schools and school infrastructure.

Impact

The bill requires that the task force submit its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by December 31, 2024. Among its objectives, the task force is expected to propose modifications to the state's building code applicable to both newly constructed schools and the renovation of existing facilities. Such modifications aim to enhance the overall safety standards across Iowa schools, reflecting a commitment to addressing contemporary safety challenges in educational settings.

Summary

House File 2440 mandates the formation of a task force by the Iowa Department of Public Safety in collaboration with the Department of Education and the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. This task force is tasked with studying and making recommendations regarding the safety and security standards of schools and their infrastructure. Key areas of focus will include recommendations pertaining to safety measures such as doors, windows, cameras, and locks, which are integral to ensuring a secure learning environment for students and staff alike.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HF2440 could arise from differing perspectives on how school safety should be managed and implemented. While proponents might advocate for a standardized set of regulations to ensure all schools meet specific safety benchmarks, critics could argue that one-size-fits-all solutions may not adequately address unique local needs or contextual factors, potentially leading to varied compliance and effectiveness across different districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB692

A bill for an act relating to school security, including by modifying provisions related to the issuance of school bonds, requiring schools to conduct school safety reviews and have access to the statewide interoperable communications system, establishing the school emergency radio access grant program and the firearm detection software grant program within the department of homeland security and emergency management, requiring the department of public safety to convene a task force related to the safety and security standards of schools and school infrastructure, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 2652.)

IA HF2652

A bill for an act relating to school security, including by modifying provisions related to the issuance of school bonds, the secure an advanced vision for education fund, school district use of professional development moneys, and school security equipment and infrastructure, requiring the department of public safety to convene a task force related to the safety and security standards of schools and school infrastructure, and including effective date and applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 692.) Applicability date: Enactment, 07/01/2024.

IA SF500

A bill for an act relating to establishing the school security personnel grant program within the department of homeland security and emergency management and making appropriations.

IA SB1371

Office of Homeland Security; transferring the Office of Homeland Security from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to the Department of Public Safety. Emergency.

IA SCR40

Creates the K-12 School Safety Task Force to study and make recommendations relative to school safety and security.

IA HF2438

A bill for an act relating to the security of school district buildings, including establishing the school security grant program within the department of education, establishing design and construction standards for new attendance centers, and making appropriations.

IA SB00997

An Act Concerning The Department Of Emergency Management And Homeland Security.

IA HSB675

A bill for an act relating to school security, including by requiring certain school districts to employ or retain school security personnel, establishing the school security personnel grant program within the department of education, and authorizing school employees to be issued professional permits to carry weapons.(See HF 2586.)

IA SB36

Relating to the homeland security activities of certain entities, including the establishment and operations of the Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety.

IA SB780

Relating to the homeland security activities of certain entities, including the establishment and operations of the Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.