Bill > HB0040

This bill proposes comprehensive amendments to Utah's school safety regulations, focusing on enhancing safety protocols, personnel requirements, and infrastructure across the state's educational institutions. The bill establishes more detailed requirements for school safety needs assessments, which must now be conducted every three years and include evaluations of physical security, emergency response protocols, cardiac emergency preparedness, and universal access key box compliance. It creates a new state-level framework for school safety, including the establishment of a School Safety Center, a state security chief role, and county security chiefs who will coordinate safety efforts. The bill introduces more stringent training requirements for school safety personnel, such as school safety and security specialists, school resource officers, and school guardians, including mental health screenings and comprehensive safety training. Additionally, the legislation mandates new security infrastructure requirements like panic alert devices, security camera accessibility, and universal access key boxes in school buildings. The bill also appropriates $25 million for a School Safety and Support Grant Program to help local education agencies implement these new safety measures, with priority given to schools with the most significant needs. The changes aim to create a more comprehensive, coordinated approach to school safety that considers physical infrastructure, personnel training, emergency preparedness, and mental health support.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0040.html