Relating to the training in school safety of certain educators of a school district or an open-enrollment charter school authorized to carry a concealed handgun on school premises.
Impact
The bill modifies Chapter 37 of the Education Code by adding a subchapter that specifically outlines the training requirements for school employees eligible to carry concealed handguns. Each year, the department must provide this training at no cost for two employees at schools without security personnel. Schools have the option to seek additional training for other staff members at their own expense. Furthermore, while participation in the training program cannot be enforced, the bill allows schools to revoke the authorization for an employee to carry a handgun if they refuse to participate.
Summary
SB17 aims to improve school safety by establishing a training program for certain educators in Texas school districts and open-enrollment charter schools who are authorized to carry a concealed handgun on school premises. The bill mandates the Department of Public Safety to develop and maintain a comprehensive safety training program for these educators, utilizing best practices from law enforcement standards. This initiative intends to better prepare school staff for emergency situations, ensuring that they can effectively protect students while carrying concealed weapons.
Conclusion
Overall, SB17 represents a significant change in how Texas approaches school safety by equipping trained educators with the authorization to carry concealed firearms on school property. Supporters advocate for the necessity of such measures in today’s climate of school safety concerns, while opponents raise critical questions about responsibilities, oversight, and the overall appropriateness of arming school staff.
Contention
One point of contention surrounding SB17 is the potential liability implications for school districts and employees. The bill includes provisions that protect these entities from lawsuits arising from actions taken under the training or related to employees carrying concealed handguns. Opponents of the bill may express concern that this limitation on liability could lead to less accountability among those authorized to carry firearms in schools, potentially compromising student safety.
Relating to the authorization by a school district or open-enrollment charter school for a person to carry or possess a weapon on school premises for purposes of safety and security.
Relating to the operation of open-enrollment charter schools, including enrollment procedures and the applicability of certain laws to open-enrollment charter schools.
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 designation of certain areas as banking or credit union development districts to encourage the establishment of branches of banks or credit unions in those areas.