Bill > SB646

This bill aims to enhance safety in Hawaii's public elementary schools and state prekindergarten programs by establishing a two-year pilot program that assigns school resource officers (SROs) or registered guards to these educational facilities. Motivated by several past safety incidents involving unauthorized individuals on school campuses, the bill requires the Department of Education to assign security personnel to schools in the Campbell-Kapolei complex area, taking into account factors such as campus size, student population, and other safety considerations. The department will be tasked with seeking federal grants to help cover the costs of hiring these security personnel and must submit reports to the legislature in 2027 and 2028 detailing the pilot program's findings and recommendations. The bill recognizes that young children may not be able to effectively assess potential dangers from unauthorized individuals and seeks to create a more secure learning environment. Funds will be appropriated from general state revenues to support the implementation of this pilot program, which is set to begin on July 1, 2025, with the goal of developing a comprehensive approach to school safety for elementary and prekindergarten students.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=646&year=2025