bill adds mobile metal detectors to school safety shopping list

The text as introduced · 419 words

89R15991 AMF-D

By: Hayes
H.B. No. 4550

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to permissible uses of the school safety allotment under

the Foundation School Program.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Section 48.115(b), Education Code, is amended to

read as follows:

(b) Funds allocated under this section must be used to

improve school safety and security, including costs associated

with:

(1) securing school facilities in accordance with the

requirements of Section 37.351, including:

(A) improvements to school infrastructure;

(B) the use or installation of perimeter security

fencing conducive to a public school learning environment or

physical barriers, which may not include razor wire;

(C) exterior door and window safety and security

upgrades, including exterior door numbering and locking systems and

security film that provides resistance to a forced entry; and

(D) the purchase and maintenance of:

(i) security cameras and, if the district

has already installed security cameras, other security equipment,

including video surveillance as provided by Section 29.022; [ and ]

(ii) technology, including communications

systems or devices, such as silent panic alert devices, two-way

radios, or wireless Internet booster equipment, that facilitates

communication and information sharing between students, school

personnel, and first responders in an emergency; and

(iii) mobile metal detectors;

(2) providing security for the district, including:

(A) employing school district peace officers,

private security officers, and school marshals; and

(B) collaborating with local law enforcement

agencies, such as entering into a memorandum of understanding for

the assignment of school resource officers to schools in the

district;

(3) school safety and security measures, including:

(A) active shooter and emergency response

training;

(B) prevention and treatment programs relating

to addressing adverse childhood experiences; and

(C) the prevention, identification, and

management of emergencies and threats, using evidence-based,

effective prevention practices and including:

(i) providing licensed counselors, social

workers, chaplains, and individuals trained in restorative

discipline and restorative justice practices;

(ii) providing mental health personnel and

support, including chaplains;

(iii) providing behavioral health

services, including services provided by chaplains;

(iv) establishing threat reporting

systems; and

(v) developing and implementing programs

focused on restorative justice practices, culturally relevant

instruction, and providing mental health support, including

support provided by chaplains;

(4) providing programs related to suicide prevention,

intervention, and postvention, including programs provided by

chaplains; and

(5) employing a school safety director and other

personnel to manage and monitor school safety initiatives and the

implementation of school safety requirements for the district.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.