Bill > HB2556

This bill mandates that by January 1, 2027, all classroom doors in Hawaii's schools must have interior locks, and all classrooms and outside gathering spaces must be connected to a public address system independent of the school's phone system, as well as have functioning fire alarms with both sound and visual alerts, and schools must be equipped with emergency access routes that have more than one entrance and exit. Furthermore, the department of education is required to establish and annually update a comprehensive school emergency management plan that includes mandatory, age-appropriate emergency preparedness training for teachers, staff, and students covering topics like violence prevention, reporting, and response protocols, along with basic safety training such as first aid and CPR for teachers and security personnel, and ensuring parents have access to relevant information about these plans. Schools will also be required to conduct at least four emergency practice drills per year, including during unexpected times like recess or assemblies, to prepare for various scenarios such as lockdowns, fires, severe weather, and active shooters, and to regularly test their public address systems and fire alarms at least quarterly. Finally, the bill appropriates funds for the fiscal year 2026-2027 to implement these new safety and security measures in schools.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2556&year=2026