SB98 - School Security Act Summary

• Establishes the School Security Program requiring the State Board of Education (in consultation with ALEA and State Fire Marshal) to inspect all public K-12 school facilities at least once every five years using certified school security inspectors and assign color-coded ratings (green, yellow, or red) based on compliance with established security criteria.

• Creates the School Security and Fire Safety Fund to award grants to local boards of education for improvements to meet school security criteria and fire safety recommendations, with priority given to schools with the greatest need.

• Establishes the School Mapping Data Program within ALEA to develop accurate floor plans and aerial imagery maps of each school, including specific labeling of rooms, hazards, and utility locations, for distribution to law enforcement and public safety agencies during emergencies.

• Requires each local school district to designate a district safety coordinator with crisis response experience who must complete annual training and oversee safety drills, emergency operation plan reviews, and meetings between school administrators and local public safety officials.

• Takes effect October 1, 2024; makes school security ratings and mapping data confidential and not subject to public records requests; does not create private right of action against school boards.