Bill > H623

This bill requires public elementary and secondary schools to be equipped with panic alarms, which are defined as silent security system signals that can be manually activated to alert law enforcement during life-threatening emergencies. The bill mandates that each school building have at least one panic alarm directly linked to local law enforcement or state police, which will immediately transmit a signal upon activation without making noise inside the school. These panic alarms must meet national industry standards and be installed only by licensed alarm professionals. Schools have the option to use alternative emergency mechanisms if approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The Massachusetts School Building Authority will be responsible for fully funding the installation of these panic alarms or approved alternative mechanisms, and can even reimburse schools that have already installed such systems. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is tasked with creating rules and regulations to implement this safety measure, which aims to provide a quick and discreet way for schools to request emergency assistance during critical situations such as lockdowns, non-fire evacuations, or active shooter incidents.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H623