Bill > HJ53

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to designate an appropriate interim committee to conduct a comprehensive study on improving school safety in Montana. The study will involve collaboration with numerous stakeholders, including the Montana Safe Schools Center, Office of Public Instruction, Department of Justice, and various educational and law enforcement associations. The committee will examine Montana's implementation of the Ten Essential Actions to Improve School Safety, recommended by the U.S. Attorney General's School Safety Working Group in 2020, by reviewing best practices, analyzing current implementation, and identifying potential improvements. The resolution requires the committee to review existing school safety statutes and funding mechanisms, explore ways to enhance cross-agency coordination, and potentially establish a clearinghouse for model policies and technical assistance. All aspects of the study must be completed by September 15, 2026, with the final results to be reported to the 70th Legislature. The underlying motivation for this study is to create a more coordinated approach to school safety, recognizing that safe school environments correlate with better academic achievement, reduced bullying, and increased student engagement.

Education, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3602