Bill > SB644

This bill requires both Baltimore City school police officers and school resource officers (SROs) to carry firearms while on school premises. Specifically, the bill mandates that a Baltimore City school police officer SHALL (rather than may) carry a firearm on school property before, during, and after regular school hours. For school resource officers, who are defined as either law enforcement officers assigned to a school through a memorandum of understanding or Baltimore City school police officers, the bill now explicitly requires them to carry a firearm while present at their assigned school. The bill also maintains existing provisions related to SRO training, which includes specialized curriculum covering de-escalation, disability awareness, maintaining a positive school climate, constructive student interactions, and addressing implicit bias. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools and law enforcement agencies time to prepare for the new firearm requirement. The bill aims to enhance school safety by ensuring that designated school police officers are armed while on school grounds.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0644?ys=2025RS