Relating to the duties of school district peace officers, school resource officers, and security personnel.
Impact
This legislation significantly impacts the scope of authority and responsibilities assigned to security personnel in schools. By establishing clear guidelines on the nature of duties schools can assign to peace officers and security personnel, SB1707 aims to ensure that these individuals focus strictly on law enforcement tasks rather than administrative duties or student discipline, which are to be handled by other district employees. This change is intended to enhance the focus on security and safety within schools, thereby serving the best interests of students and staff.
Summary
SB1707 addresses the functions and responsibilities of school district peace officers, school resource officers, and security personnel within Texas schools. The bill clarifies that the duties of these officers must be defined by the school district's board of trustees and included in various district documents such as the district improvement plan and the student code of conduct. Notably, the bill specifies that these officers are responsible for ensuring safety and welfare on school grounds and protecting school property, thereby delineating their law enforcement roles in educational settings.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB1707 appears to be generally positive among those advocating for stricter safety protocols in schools. Proponents argue that clearly defined roles for law enforcement within the educational structure are critical for maintaining a safe school environment. However, there are concerns raised by some stakeholders regarding the potential over-policing of school environments and whether this legislative clarity might inadvertently lead to an increase in legal enforcement actions rather than educational support.
Contention
Notable points of contention around SB1707 include discussions about the balance between school safety and student rights. Opponents argue that the delineation of law enforcement duties may lead to situations where students are subjected to criminal enforcement for disciplinary issues that should remain educational in nature. The restrictions placed on the duties of these officers may also raise questions about the adequacy of responses to security threats in schools, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue about the role of law enforcement and educational staff in fostering a safe learning environment.
Relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district security personnel and the applicability to those officers of certain law governing private security.
Relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district security personnel and the applicability to those officers of certain law governing private security.
Relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district security personnel and the applicability to those officers of certain law governing private security.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.
Relating to the employment of certain federal law enforcement agents as school district security personnel and the authority of the chief of school safety and security for the Texas Education Agency to carry a weapon on public school grounds.
Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.