An Act implementing automated emergency response communications and coordination between Massachusetts schools with first responders
This bill establishes an automated emergency response program for Massachusetts schools to improve communication with first responders during crises. It allows school districts and public safety agencies to purchase interoperable systems that enable real-time video sharing, direct radio communication, and secure text messaging between schools and police. The legislation mandates strict cybersecurity measures, including end-to-end encryption and direct data transfer without third-party storage, to protect student and staff privacy. Additionally, the program requires these systems to be certified under federal anti-terrorism standards and compatible with national disaster communication networks.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action May 28, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Education
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Jim Arciero
DDemocratic
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