Texas Senate Bill SB1967

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the duties of the Texas School Safety Center and school districts regarding public school safety and security.

Impact

The implementation of SB1967 requires school districts to adopt and follow a training policy for school district peace officers and school resource officers. This includes training programs and an obligation for districts to conduct safety audits every two to three years. These measures are designed to strengthen a school's response to emergencies, foster a secure environment for students and staff, and ensure that law enforcement personnel are adequately prepared to handle any incidents that may arise on school premises.

Summary

SB1967 addresses the responsibilities of the Texas School Safety Center and school districts in relation to public school safety and security. The bill mandates that school trustees complete online training about school safety and security shortly after their election or appointment. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of schools adopting a multihazard emergency operations plan, which should be regularly updated and audited to ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB1967 is the requirement for school safety audits and the establishment of memoranda of understanding or mutual aid agreements pertaining to school safety. Critics might argue that enforcing such requirements could lead to increased administrative burdens for school districts, particularly those with limited resources. However, supporters of the bill emphasize that these audits and agreements are vital for improving overall safety and enhancing coordination with local emergency services.