Relating to the requirement that providers of active shooter training at public schools and institutions of higher education obtain a certificate issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
Impact
The enactment of SB999 will directly impact state laws relating to education and public safety. It amends existing statutes to prohibit school districts and higher education institutions from hiring any active shooter training providers who do not have TCOLE certification. As a result, this bill sets a legal framework for active shooter response training, aligning with best practices aimed at enhancing the preparedness of educators and law enforcement in emergency situations. The law will require TCOLE to establish a certification program for these training providers by September 1, 2024, which is particularly significant for companies currently offering such training without established credentials.
Summary
Senate Bill 999 mandates that providers of active shooter training for public schools and institutions of higher education in Texas must obtain a certificate issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). This bill aims to establish a formalized and standardized approach to training programs that address the growing concern regarding safety in educational settings, particularly in light of increasing incidents of school shootings. It requires that both the individual instructors and the training companies be certified to ensure quality and consistency in the training provided.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around SB999 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with strong bipartisan support reflected in its passage through the legislative process. Several committee discussions indicated a recognition of the necessity for standardized training as an essential component of public safety in schools. However, there remains an underlying apprehension from some stakeholders concerning the potential implications of mandated requirements on localities with existing training programs.
Contention
Notable points of contention included concerns from educators about whether the certification requirements might limit the availability of training options or drive up costs associated with such training. Some committee members also raised questions about the feasibility of implementing these training certifications within the proposed timelines, especially in light of ongoing funding and resource allocation challenges faced by educational institutions. Nevertheless, the strong legislative support suggests that the bill's proponents believe that the benefits of establishing a stringent certification process will outweigh these challenges.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
Section: 0812
Section: 1141
Section: 1141
Section: 1141
Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
Relating to an active shooter emergency protocol for public school districts and required active shooter response training for school district peace officers and school resource officers.
Relating to active shooter events and other emergencies, including certain accreditations of law enforcement agencies that respond to such emergencies.
Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the commissioning of peace officers by the Texas Education Agency, the composition of the board of directors of the Texas School Safety Center, and public school safety and security requirements and resources.