SCHOOL MARSHAL ACT

HB 485, the School Marshal Act, creates a program allowing school districts to employ retired or former law enforcement officers as "school marshals" who may carry concealed firearms on school premises. To qualify, individuals must have at least three years of law enforcement experience, hold a concealed carry permit, and complete state-approved training. School marshals may only carry weapons with school board permission and are restricted to using force only to prevent serious bodily harm or death. The bill requires school districts to develop policies for firearm storage, mandates notification of law enforcement agencies about marshals, and specifies that marshals do not earn retirement benefits.