Relating to the establishment of the School Safety Advisory Council and School Safety Certification Program.
Impact
The bill is set to alter state laws concerning the safety frameworks within which school districts operate. Specifically, it encourages these districts to incorporate stringent security measures and emergency preparedness drills into their operational plans. The certification program will serve as a benchmark for evaluating and validating school safety measures, ensuring schools conform to the pre-determined standards laid out by the council's recommendations. This could lead to more uniform safety practices across school districts, potentially decreasing vulnerability to emergencies.
Summary
SB1660 is a legislative act aimed at establishing the School Safety Advisory Council and the School Safety Certification Program in Texas. The bill mandates the creation of a council comprising various heads or designees from agencies related to emergency management and school safety. The council is tasked with studying and recommending best practices for emergency operations planning in schools, thereby enhancing safety protocols across educational institutions in Texas.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1660 appears to be supportive, particularly among proponents of enhanced school safety measures. Many constituents and lawmakers view the establishment of a dedicated council as a proactive approach to addressing safety concerns in schools. However, there are likely some reservations stemming from concerns over funding and the implementation of the proposed safety protocols.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the budget implications of establishing a new council and the potential for compliance burdens on school districts already facing resource constraints. Critics may argue that the bill could unintentionally divert funds from other essential educational programs. Thus, while the intent is to bolster school safety, the logistical and financial aspects of implementing the recommendations could spark debate among stakeholders.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including the establishment of a school safety grant program and a school safety plan implementation grant program, and the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the state school safety fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
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 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.
Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program and the establishment of a school safety grant program; making an appropriation.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.