SB 217 Summary

• School district governing bodies may authorize one or more permanent employees to carry concealed handguns on school grounds for defensive use.

• Authorized employees must meet permit requirements under AS 18.65.700-18.65.790, obtain a concealed handgun permit, and complete 40 hours of training equivalent to a nationally recognized school resource officer course.

• School districts must adopt written policies specifying how concealed handguns are possessed and used, and establish physical and mental standards matching those required by the Alaska Police Standards Council for police officer employment.

• Department of Public Safety must establish regulations requiring authorized employees to complete a minimum of 88 hours of continuing firearms training annually in a nationally recognized course.

• School districts may revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew an employee's authorization if they fail to meet the Department of Public Safety's continuing education requirements.