What Is This Bill?
Signed into law in 2023 by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Texas SB 838 and its House companion bill HB 669, collectively known as Alyssa’s Law, mandates the installation of panic button silent alert systems in every classroom in Texas schools, including charter schools. This panic alert requirement comes in addition to the existing requirement that school employees have access to telephones or other electronic communication devices.
The legislation was inspired by Lori Alhadeff, whose daughter, Alyssa, was killed in the 2018 Parkland school shooting. Alhadeff has since launched a nationwide campaign advocating for improved security measures in schools. With the passage of this bill, Texas now joins New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Florida in implementing similar school safety measures, with legislation under consideration in Oregon, Georgia, Arizona, Nebraska, and Virginia.
The bill states that funds from school safety allotments or other available funds can be used to procure these devices. The law would go into effect in Texas for the 2025-2026 school year.
Why Is It Important?
This bill is significant for school districts and open-enrollment charter schools in Texas in prioritizing the safety and well-being of their students and educators.
Alyssa’s Law establishes an immediate response mechanism within schools to ensure that help can be summoned swiftly in emergencies. The solution is simple yet effective, equipping every classroom with alert devices to reduce response time by first responders and potentially save lives in the midst of danger.
Increasing the effectiveness of emergency response is not just a luxury; it is a necessity. Tactile alert buttons facilitate rapid communication with dispatch surpassing traditional 911 calls in speed and effectiveness. In high-stress emergency scenarios, these strategically located devices empower teachers and staff to take immediate action and more quickly report events to dispatch.
Alyssa’s Law also recognizes the importance of funding for implementing these safety measures. The bill suggests using funds from the school safety allotment or other available resources to procure the panic alert devices. Through Alyssa’s Law, Texas sets a precedent for prioritizing school safety and provides a model for other states to follow.
Implementing panic alert devices in every classroom is a significant first step in bolstering emergency preparedness and response capabilities. It empowers educators and staff members with an additional tool to protect students and themselves during critical situations.
How SOS Technologies Supports Alyssa’s Law Initiatives
SOS Technologies delivers a premium emergency monitoring, prevention, and response capabilities for organizations, including schools, nationwide. By harnessing the power of leading-edge capabilities and technologies, such as our patented SmartSOS™ security platform and EagleEye AI technology, we provide solutions for administrators seeking to enhance their safety and security program and adhere to Alyssa’s Law.
Are you interested in learning more about how SOS Technologies can partner with your school to keep students, teachers, and staff safe? Reach out to us to schedule a presentation.