• In Mississippi, the legislature and governor enacted House Bill 1283. The new law expands funding for the Mississippi Community Oriented Policing Services in Schools program. This program implements the recommendation of the Governor’s task force that every school have a school resource officer — providing funds to every school district that qualifies. The legislation also requires twice-yearly active shooter drills and implements a threat-reporting system to be monitored by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
• In Nebraska, legislation has been introduced to require model policies and training for school districts that employ school resource officers. LB 390 would establish statewide standards for school resource officers. Training would be required on subjects including student rights and juvenile brain development. School administrators would be required to attend the training sessions as well.
• In North Carolina, school-based law enforcement officers assigned to Winston-Salem and Forsyth County schools no longer wear traditional police uniforms. The new uniform includes a blazer, polo shirt, tactical khakis, and tennis shoes. • In Texas, the legislature is proposing new safety requirements at schools and funding for mental health resources. Under Senate Bill 11, school districts would be required to develop a safety plan, improve coordination with local law enforcement, and provide more mental health training for teachers.