HB 53 Summary

• School principals or superintendents may request volunteers to form emergency security forces if they determine additional security is necessary to protect student and employee safety.

• Volunteers selected must be reviewed and approved by the local sheriff or chief of police, who will provide training and maintain supervision; volunteers serve as reserve deputy sheriffs or reserve police officers without arrest powers.

• The sheriff or chief of police, in conjunction with school administrators, must develop a detailed crisis plan specifying weapons storage, carrying procedures, and circumstances for weapons use.

• Emergency security force members receive no compensation but may be reimbursed for actual necessary expenses; training costs and equipment purchases are paid by the local board of education.

• The state shall indemnify members of the security force, school boards, superintendents, State Board of Education members, law enforcement, counties, and municipalities against settlements or judgments arising from acts within the scope of service, except for intentional or willful misconduct.