Utah House Committee Advances School Security Bill
The Utah Legislature passed a comprehensive school security bill last year, strengthening armed security, installing emergency communication systems, and linking the SafeUT Crisis Line with the state’s intelligence database. A new bill, HB40, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Wilcox, focuses on enhancing safety training, building standards, and cybersecurity in schools. Recent data breaches in school districts like Granite and PowerSchool have highlighted the need for improved cybersecurity measures.
HB40 directs state security chief Matt Pennington to establish minimum cybersecurity standards for schools, aiming to prevent data compromises. School districts must submit safety needs assessments detailing existing security measures by Oct. 15. Most schools across the state have three to six safety standards in place, while 10% have only met one or two standards. The School Security Task Force has also approved providing first-aid and bleed kits to all schools and implementing panic alert devices in classrooms.
The committee also advanced HB128, clarifying that both adults and minors can face prosecution for possessing dangerous weapons on school property. Law enforcement and education officials are working together to enhance school safety, with HB40 seen as a crucial step forward in this effort.
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