AB 1858 Summary

• Prohibits schools from conducting "high-intensity" active shooter or armed assailant drills that include theatrical simulations, fake blood, acting assailants, victim portrayals, or instructions for pupils to physically resist assailants.

• Requires schools conducting such drills to use trauma-informed approaches including age-appropriate language, advance notice to parents, parental opt-out options, and announcements before and after drills.

• Mandates schools provide contact information for mental health resources and gun violence prevention organizations to pupils, staff, and families negatively impacted by drills.

• Prohibits use of real weapons, gunfire blanks, or explosions in drills, and requires drills to be based on specific school and community needs.

• Directs the State Department of Education to post best practices for school shooter drills by June 15, 2025, and authorizes chartering authorities to deny charter school petitions lacking adequate active shooter drill procedures.