Appropriating money for grants to schools to acquire proactive threat detection equipment and software and making an appropriation.
Impact
If enacted, AB968 will significantly alter the funding landscape for school safety measures by providing targeted financial resources to schools. This funding is designed to cover the costs associated with acquiring threat detection systems, which can include both metallic and nonmetallic equipment. The bill seeks to ensure that educational institutions are better equipped to prevent potential threats, thereby fostering a safer environment for students and staff alike.
Summary
AB968 is a bill introduced in the Wisconsin Legislature that appropriates $4,000,000 in funding to the Department of Justice for the purpose of awarding grants to schools. The intent behind this bill is to enable school boards and governing bodies of private schools to acquire proactive threat detection equipment and software. This funding initiative aims to enhance security measures within educational institutions as part of a broader strategy to improve public safety within schools, especially in light of recent concerns over threats to student safety.
Contention
One notable aspect of AB968 is its conditional appropriation, which states that the funding is contingent upon the passage of another bill aimed at creating a grant program. If the related bill, Assembly Bill 542, or the Senate Bill 523, is not enacted, the appropriations outlined in AB968 will be rendered void. This introduces a layer of complexity and potential contention, as the success of AB968 is intertwined with the legislative fate of these companion bills.
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.