Mississippi House Bill HB51

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

School Security Disbursement Program; establish.

Impact

This legislation is poised to impact state laws by creating a dedicated funding mechanism for school security improvements within the education sector. It establishes the 'School Security Disbursement Cash Fund' managed by the State Treasury, from which financial assistance will be granted based on the needs highlighted in applications submitted by schools or eligible organizations. This funding aims to ensure that public schools are equipped to handle potential threats effectively and to foster a safer educational atmosphere.

Summary

House Bill 51 establishes the School Security Disbursement Program aimed at enhancing security in public schools across Mississippi. The bill allows school districts, district charter schools, and eligible nonprofit organizations to apply for financial disbursements intended for security improvements. By providing funding for necessary security infrastructure and training, the bill seeks to prevent incidents of school violence and ensure a safer learning environment for students and staff. The disbursements can be used for various security measures, including capital construction, emergency response training, and resilience programs for students.

Contention

One notable contention surrounding HB 51 may arise from the allocation of funds and the criteria for disbursement, as well as concerns over the effectiveness of the security measures in preventing violence. The requirement for matching funds from applicants could place a burden on smaller schools or organizations that may face difficulties in raising additional financial resources. Furthermore, the program's impending repeal in July 2033 raises questions about long-term sustainability and ongoing support for school safety initiatives, highlighting the need for potentially reassessing and extending such programs in the future.