HF4748

Purpose

To strengthen school safety by adding requirements under the State Fire Code for schools to have a comprehensive multilayered integrated security system designed to protect students from armed attacks. The exact requirements would be set through rulemaking.

Main Provisions

• Adds a new subdivision (School safety) to Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 299F.011, requiring the commissioner to adopt rules as part of the State Fire Code.
• The rules would require schools to protect students from armed attack using a comprehensive multilayered integrated security system.
• Specific requirements will be determined during the rulemaking process, but may include the following elements: 1) bulletresistant interior doors and windows 2) ballistic wall panels 3) magnetic doorlocking systems 4) remote lockdown activation systems 5) a mass notification system unified with an emergency communication system 6) an emergency building access system for first responders, including fire, emergency medical services, and law enforcement 7) an access control system with remote door release capabilities 8) electronic access controls for main distribution frame rooms with a key override 9) classroom duress alarms linked to a law enforcement and administration notification system 10) security system training for staff to initiate emergency protocols 11) ballistic security glass for interior door vision panels and sidelites 12) electronic access control systems for primary building entrances 13) classroom door installations that optimize safety and security

Changes to Law

• Creates a new requirement within the State Fire Code for schools to implement security measures aimed at preventing or mitigating armed attacks, expanding the scope of protections beyond traditional fire safety to include strong security infrastructure.

Implementation & Timing

• Rulemaking will determine the exact standards, timelines, and any associated costs.
• The rules are intended to be developed with input and coordination from relevant stakeholders, including first responders (fire, EMS, police) and school personnel, and to address how the security measures operate in emergencies.

Potential Implications

• Schools may need to upgrade facilities and systems to meet the new security standards.
• Staff training and ongoing maintenance of security systems will be required.
• Enhanced coordination with emergency responders is anticipated through integrated systems.

Notes on Terminology

• Key concepts include “State Fire Code,” “comprehensive multilayered integrated security system,” “armed attack,” “mass notification system,” “emergency building access system,” “remote lockdown,” “duress alarms,” and “ballistic” materials (bullet-resistant doors/windows, ballistic glass).

Relevant Terms - State Fire Code - School safety - armed attack - comprehensive multilayered integrated security system - mass notification system - emergency communication system - remote lockdown activation - emergency building access system - first responders - fire, EMS, law enforcement - access control system - remote door release - main distribution frame rooms - key override - classroom duress alarms - staff training - ballistic wall panels - interior doors and windows (bullet-resistant) - ballistic security glass - classroom door installations