CA AB2968

Requires public schools serving more than 50 pupils in high or very high fire hazard severity zones to establish refuge shelter procedures by the 2026-27 fiscal year and notify their operational area of the identified refuge location.

Mandates schools in high or very high fire hazard severity zones to develop a communication and evacuation plan for use during early notice evacuation warnings, with clear decision-making processes for determining when evacuation orders are appropriate.

Requires all schools to establish procedures identifying appropriate refuge shelter for pupils and staff in evacuation events, coordinated with the operational area for schools serving more than 50 pupils in designated fire hazard zones.

Adds requirements for schools to include active shooter drill procedures with trauma-informed safeguards, including age-appropriate content, advance parent notice, opt-out ability, and provision of mental health resources to affected families.

Provides that if other related bills (AB 1858, AB 2887, AB 176, SB 176) are also enacted, this bill's provisions will incorporate their amendments to ensure comprehensive school safety plan requirements are unified across all bills.