The Florida Senate on Thursday unanimously approved a school safety measure that expands campus security protocols, establishes statewide training standards for armed personnel, and requires the development of a digital threat management system.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Danny Burgess, now heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis for signature.

The legislation mandates that sheriffs provide training programs for school guardians and security guards if requested by school districts, charter schools, or private institutions. The standardized training includes 144 hours of instruction in firearm proficiency, defensive tactics, de-escalation techniques, and active assailant response scenarios. Security agencies are responsible for training and screening costs, though the bill allows exemptions for certified law enforcement officers in good standing. Sheriffs must issue certificates to qualified individuals and maintain documentation of ongoing qualifications and inspections.

The measure also requires the Office of Safe Schools to implement a statewide behavioral threat assessment process, supported by a Florida-specific evaluation instrument and a secure digital portal to be operational by August 1, 2025. The portal will allow authorized school personnel to document, assess, and monitor threats while coordinating interventions. Strict access controls will govern use of the system, and unauthorized access will be subject to civil penalties of up to $2,000.

To strengthen physical campus security, the bill codifies locking requirements for school campuses. All gates, doors, and classroom access points must remain secured during designated school hours—defined as 30 minutes before the start of the day and 30 minutes after dismissal—unless actively monitored or otherwise exempted under an approved safety plan. Instructional spaces must remain locked while occupied, with exceptions granted for technical education areas where locking may present health or safety risks. Substitute teachers must be provided with safety protocols upon arrival, and shelter-in-place zones must be clearly marked and explained to students during the first 10 days of the school year.

“With input from parents, teachers, school administrators, and law enforcement, this legislation builds on our track record of continuous improvement in school safety,” said Burgess on X. “I’m proud to have helped spearhead this legislation in the [Florida Senate] this session to help give families peace of mind that their children are safe during the school day.”

An earlier provision directing $450,000 in recurring funding for a centralized panic alert and digital mapping system was removed by a House amendment. The system’s implementation is now subject to legislative appropriations, though the Department of Education is still tasked with coordinating its development in conjunction with emergency services infrastructure.

The House amendment also authorizes child care facilities to contract with law enforcement or licensed security agencies to assign safe-school officers. The facilities must cover all associated costs, including training. Additional changes clarify that temporary door locks may be used during active assailant incidents so long as the devices comply with fire and safety codes and are included in the school’s emergency response plan.

The bill further directs the Office of Safe Schools to convene a workgroup of law enforcement, school officials, and mental health professionals to develop recommendations for the creation of a Florida Institute of School Safety. The group’s findings must be submitted to the Governor and legislative leadership by January 1, 2026.