MCOPS programs; authorize training for to provide at any approved training academy in the state.
The bill outlines that School Resource Officers funded through the MCOPS program must devote at least 75% of their time to working in and around schools. Additionally, it establishes a financial framework where state funds will significantly contribute to the funding of these officer positions while requiring local governments to match funds. This partnership aims to strengthen the connection between law enforcement agencies and schools, advocating for a collaborative approach to combat school violence and enhance educational safety programs.
House Bill 766 aims to enhance school safety across Mississippi by modifying the existing laws to authorize accredited law enforcement training academies within the state to provide training through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) program. This bill specifically amends Section 37-3-82 of the Mississippi Code to facilitate the establishment of a Mississippi Community Oriented Policing Services (MCOPS) grant program. The program intends to increase the deployment of trained law enforcement officers known as School Resource Officers (SROs) in both primary and secondary schools, helping to ensure a safer learning environment for students.
While supporters of HB 766 argue that it promotes safety and security within schools, some concerns may arise regarding the extent of law enforcement presence in educational settings and how it affects the student experience. Critics might argue that increased policing could lead to a more austere environment for students and potentially criminalize unnecessary behavior among youth. The requirement for training through the ALERRT program also raises questions about the nature of training provided and the overall effectiveness of such programs in a school setting.
The State Department of Education is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this act, requiring schools and law enforcement agencies to demonstrate a genuine need for additional resources and ensuring that grant funds are utilized appropriately. The bill indicates that local jurisdictions must not reduce their overall number of sworn officers as a direct consequence of applying for or receiving funding, thus maintaining a foundational level of safety personnel in schools.