New Mexico House Bill HB254

New Mexico 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

School Marshal Act

Impact

If enacted, the School Marshal Act will significantly alter the landscape of school safety regulations in New Mexico. The bill mandates that school districts can appoint school marshals who are employees trained to carry concealed handguns on school property. This legislation establishes detailed protocols for the carrying of firearms in schools, including the type of ammunition that may be used, as well as outlining the necessary training and psychological evaluation required for marshals. By introducing these measures, the legislature aims to empower schools to create safer environments, but it also brings forth concerns regarding the presence of firearms in educational settings.

Summary

House Bill 254, known as the School Marshal Act, aims to enhance safety measures within schools by allowing trained school employees to serve as 'school marshals.' This legislation requires that employees who volunteer for this role must complete a specific training program established by the state's Department of Public Safety, where they will receive instruction on handling firearms, emergency response strategies, and legal issues regarding the use of force. The intention behind this act is to provide an additional layer of security in educational environments, particularly in response to the growing concerns surrounding school shootings and overall school safety.

Contention

Despite its stated goal of enhancing school safety, the School Marshal Act has faced criticism from various educational and advocacy groups. Opponents argue that introducing armed personnel into schools may increase the potential for accidental shootings or misuse of firearms, ultimately placing students at greater risk. Critics also raise concerns regarding the mental fitness criteria for those selected as marshals, questioning whether the psychological evaluations are sufficient to determine the capability of individuals to handle high-stress situations effectively. This legislation reflects a broader debate regarding the best security measures to protect students while balancing the risks associated with arming school personnel.