Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1260

Introduced

5/24/23

Refer

5/24/23

Caption

In safe schools, providing for school safety blueprint requirement.

Impact

By introducing this requirement, HB 1260 amends the existing Public School Code of 1949 to reinforce safety measures for students and staff in educational settings. The bill seeks to ensure that law enforcement agencies are better prepared to respond to incidents that may occur on school premises, potentially improving response times and coordination during emergencies. This act is viewed as a necessary enhancement to existing safety protocols in light of rising concerns about school safety across the nation.

Summary

House Bill 1260 proposes a requirement for all school entities in Pennsylvania to submit current blueprints of their buildings to the Pennsylvania State Police or the appropriate municipal police department. This legislation aims to enhance safety protocols within schools, particularly in emergency situations, thereby strengthening the overall school safety infrastructure. The provision specifically mandates that school entities update these blueprints whenever there are changes to building layouts, ensuring that law enforcement has timely access to accurate information in case of emergencies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1260 is generally supportive, with advocates emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in school safety. Many educators, safety officials, and parents view the bill as a responsible step towards safeguarding students in school environments. However, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden of regularly updating blueprints and the implications of such requirements on school operational costs.

Contention

While the bill is broadly aimed at improving school safety, discussions might arise over potential challenges related to implementation. Opponents may question the feasibility of creating and maintaining updated blueprints for all types of school entities, particularly smaller private or charter schools that may lack the resources to comply with these requirements. Potential regulatory complexities and funding for these initiatives could become focal points of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB35

In school safety and security, providing for school safety blueprint requirement.

PA SB907

In school safety and security, further providing for school

PA SB632

In school security, providing for school safety form.

PA HB1908

In school safety and security, further providing for school safety and security coordinator; and, in school security, further providing for duties of commission and providing for school security personnel.

PA SB930

In student supports, further providing for definitions; in school safety and security, further providing for definitions, for School Safety and Security Committee, for school safety and security assessment providers, for School Safety and Security Grant Program, for school safety and security coordinator, for school safety and security training and for reporting and memorandum of understanding; in school security, further providing for training, for school resource officers, for school security guards and for duties of commission; in Safe2Say Program, further providing for intent, for definitions, for Safe2Say Program and for annual report; in threat assessment, further providing for definitions, for threat assessment teams and for threat assessment guidelines, training and information materials; and making editorial changes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.