Loading chat...
RI H7897
Bill
Status
2/27/2026
Primary Sponsor
Joseph Solomon
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Requires all public and private schools, colleges, and universities in Rhode Island with 20 or more combined staff and students to develop comprehensive school safety and emergency response plans beginning July 1, 2026
-
Plans must ensure immediate, unobstructed access for law enforcement and emergency medical personnel to all buildings, classrooms, and grounds during emergencies, using methods such as key fobs, card access, or manual keys
-
Schools must submit plans annually to the Department of Education, local police chief, and director of public safety by August 1, with police review and approval or recommendations due by August 15
-
Local police chiefs must notify the Department of Education by September 1 if any school rejects or fails to implement recommended changes to their safety plans
-
Department of Education, in consultation with the director of public safety, must promulgate rules and regulations to enforce compliance
Legislative Description
Requires all schools and educational institutions to develop and implement a school safety plan that would provide for immediate access to school facilities by first responders in an emergency.
Education
Last Action
Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/17/2026)
3/13/2026