The Alabama House of Representatives has approved House Bill 234, which would require all public schools in the state to implement a mobile emergency rapid response system by 2030. The bill aims to improve school safety by ensuring that designated staff members are equipped and trained to respond quickly to emergencies through mobile panic button technology.

The legislation, sponsored by State Rep. Alan Baker (R-Brewton), passed on March 20 by a vote of 58-30, with 13 members abstaining. While the proposal received majority support, several lawmakers expressed concerns about the cost of implementing and maintaining the system, particularly in districts with limited budgets.

Under the legislation, each school district must designate staff members to operate the system, which connects directly with law enforcement and emergency responders. The system is designed to provide real-time information on the location of an incident, including the specific floor and room where the emergency occurs.

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Supporters of the bill have noted the system’s versatility. In addition to active shooter incidents, the emergency response system could be used during medical emergencies, accidents in science labs, or other situations that require an immediate response. The goal is to improve response times and provide first responders with accurate information upon arrival.

An amendment to the bill was approved unanimously (102-0), making the system’s implementation contingent on funding from annual state school safety funds beginning in 2030. This amendment was intended to ease concerns about the financial burden on local school districts.

The legislation also includes provisions for schools that already have similar safety systems. If these schools meet the bill’s standards, they would not be required to replace or upgrade their current systems.

The bill has now been moved to the Alabama Senate for further consideration.