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 at least one silent panic alarm system directly linked to law enforcement or the State Police. The alarms must meet national safety standards, be installed by licensed professionals, and not produce audible alerts within the school. The Massachusetts School Building Authority will cover the full cost of installation, including reimbursement for districts that already installed approved systems. Schools may also use alternative emergency mechanisms approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.