HB 455 — The permissible uses of the school safety allotment unde

90R1049 AMF-F By: Bucy H.B. No. 455 relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program.

SECTION 1. Section 48.160(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) Funds allocated under this section must be used to improve school safety and security, including costs associated with: (1) securing school facilities in accordance with the requirements of Section 37.351, including: (A) improvements to school infrastructure; (B) the use or installation of perimeter security fencing conducive to a public school learning environment or physical barriers, which may not include razor wire; (C) interior and exterior door and window safety and security upgrades, including: (i) exterior door numbering; (ii) primary and secondary locking systems; and (iii) security film that provides resistance to a forced entry; and (D) the purchase and maintenance of: (i) security cameras and, if the district has already installed security cameras, other security equipment, including video surveillance as provided by Section 29.022; and (ii) technology, including communications systems or devices, such as silent panic alert devices, two-way radios, or wireless Internet booster equipment, that facilitates communication and information sharing between students, school personnel, and first responders in an emergency; (2) providing security for the district, including: (A) employing school district peace officers, private security officers, and school marshals; and (B) collaborating with local law enforcement agencies, such as entering into a memorandum of understanding for the assignment of school resource officers to schools in the district; (3) school safety and security measures, including: (A) active shooter and emergency response training; (B) prevention and treatment programs relating to addressing adverse childhood experiences; and (C) the prevention, identification, and management of emergencies and threats, using evidence-based, effective prevention practices and including: (i) providing licensed counselors, social workers, behavioral interventionists, chaplains, and individuals trained in restorative discipline and justice or other discipline management practices; (ii) providing mental health personnel and support, including chaplains; (iii) providing behavioral health services, including services provided by chaplains; (iv) establishing threat reporting systems; [ and ] (v) providing professional development for educators that includes training in classroom behavioral management; and (vi) developing and implementing programs focused on restorative justice practices, culturally relevant instruction, and providing mental health support, including support provided by chaplains; (4) providing programs related to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention, including programs provided by chaplains; and (5) employing a school safety director and other personnel to manage and monitor school safety initiatives and the implementation of school safety requirements for the district.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2027.