Requires the installation of a master key box at each school building for building access by law enforcement and emergency responders; must meet the underwriters laboratories standard UL 1037.
Impact
The implementation of Bill S07999 will fundamentally alter existing protocols surrounding emergency access in educational settings. By requiring schools to collaborate with local law enforcement to install these master key boxes, the bill aims to streamline emergency responses and potentially save lives during crises. Moreover, it will necessitate schools to review and enhance their security measures, which may lead to a comprehensive reassessment of current practices related to safety and access.
Summary
Bill S07999 introduces an important measure aimed at enhancing school safety across the state of New York. Specifically, the bill mandates the installation of a secure master key box at every public or private school building. This key box is designed to facilitate emergency access for law enforcement and emergency responders during critical situations, ensuring they can quickly and efficiently access buildings when necessary. The requirement stipulates completion by June 30, 2027, and is part of a broader effort to safeguard educational institutions from potential threats.
Contention
While S07999 is geared towards improving safety, there may be debates surrounding its financial implications and the logistics of installation. Opponents might argue that the costs incurred for the installation of these key boxes could strain budgets, particularly for smaller schools or districts already facing financial challenges. Additionally, concerns about how access is managed and controlled could surface, prompting discussions about the balance between safety and privacy within school environments. These points of contention will likely fuel discussions among lawmakers as the bill progresses through legislative sessions.
Requires the state fire prevention and building code council to study and adopt uniform fire prevention and building code standards to promote fire safety and accessibility in single-exit, single stairway multi-unit residential buildings above 3 stories and up to at least 6 stories, based on a study of building codes existing in the city of New York and in other cities and jurisdictions that have adopted such buildings into their building codes.
Requires the state fire prevention and building code council to study and adopt uniform fire prevention and building code standards to promote fire safety and accessibility in single-exit, single stairway multi-unit residential buildings above 3 stories and up to at least 6 stories, based on a study of building codes existing in the city of New York and in other cities and jurisdictions that have adopted such buildings into their building codes.
Requires the state fire prevention and building code council to adopt uniform fire prevention and building code standards requiring buildings have their address numbers, building numbers, or approved building identification placed at least three feet above ground level where plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property.
Establishes the state all-electric building plan to require the office of general services to transition all buildings owned by the state to be all-electric buildings.
Establishes standards for the evacuation of individuals with disabilities from high-rise buildings during an emergency; provides factors to be considered in the development of such standards.
Establishes standards for the evacuation of individuals with disabilities from high-rise buildings during an emergency; provides factors to be considered in the development of such standards.
Clarifies what buildings constitute an existing public school building for purposes of the location of charter schools by describing an existing public school building as being a building that is currently occupied or is unoccupied but designated for potential school use.