Tennessee House Bill HB7038

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/17/23
• Refer: 8/22/23
• Refer: 8/23/23
• Refer: 8/24/23
• Engrossed: 8/28/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 9; Title 49 and Title 67, relative to educational expenses for school safety plans.

Impact

If enacted, HB7038 would lead to the creation of a dedicated fund within the general fund known as the school safety alert grant fund. The bill mandates the allocation of approximately $90 million for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to facilitate these grants, with individual schools eligible for up to $50,000 in funding each fiscal year. This financial support is intended to equip schools with essential resources necessary for the implementation of effective safety alert systems, thus significantly impinging on budget allocations for school safety measures at the state and local levels.

Summary

House Bill 7038 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically aimed at creating a structured approach to funding school safety initiatives. It establishes a school safety alert grant program that allows local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools to apply for grants to develop school safety alert systems. The bill indicates a significant commitment to enhancing the security measures in public schools across Tennessee, driven by a pressing need to create safer educational environments for students and staff alike.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB7038 has been generally positive among supporters who view it as a proactive step towards enhancing school safety. The proposal received overwhelming legislative support, as indicated by a floor vote in which it passed with 88 yeas and no nays. This strong backing suggests a consensus on the importance of prioritizing student safety, particularly in light of increasing concerns regarding school violence. However, there may be discussions regarding the effectiveness and administration of the grant program as it moves forward.

Contention

While the intent behind HB7038 is to enhance safety within schools, there may be points of contention regarding the equitable distribution of funds among LEAs and public charter schools, particularly those in underfunded districts. The potential for competitive grant applications may also lead to disparities, where wealthier districts secure funding more easily than those that do not have the same resources or capabilities to implement robust safety alert systems. Additionally, the ability of the department of education to effectively administer and oversee the allocation of these grants may also be questioned.