An Act relative to equipping public elementary and secondary schools with panic alarms or emergency mechanisms

This bill requires all public elementary and secondary schools in Massachusetts to install silent panic alarms that directly connect to local law enforcement during emergencies like lockdowns or active shooter situations. The legislation mandates that these devices must meet specific industry standards, be installed by licensed professionals, and remain inaudible within the school building to avoid panic. School districts that choose an alternative emergency mechanism approved by the state education department may use that instead, and the Massachusetts School Building Authority will cover the full installation costs. Additionally, the bill allows for reimbursement of costs if a district already has an approved system before the law takes effect.