H.R. 6964: To amend the National Security Act of 1947 to include school security as an element of the National Security Strategy, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to amend the National Security Act of 1947 by incorporating school security as a key aspect of the National Security Strategy. Below are the primary points outlined in the bill:

Inclusion of School Security

The bill amends the existing National Security Act to:

• Renumber existing provisions related to national security.
• Add a new paragraph that explicitly states the need for strategies and capabilities to ensure the safety and security of schools across the United States. This includes:
• Elementary schools
• Secondary schools
• Institutions of higher education

Assessment of Threats to Schools

Under this bill, there will be a mandate for a thorough assessment of potential threats to educational institutions. This includes:

Comprehensive Assessment

• The Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Homeland Security will jointly conduct a comprehensive evaluation of threats to various types of schools.

Consultation with States

• During this assessment, the two Secretaries must consult with the chief executive officers of each state to gather insights and data.

Reporting Requirements

• Within 180 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretaries are required to submit a report detailing the findings of the assessment to the relevant Congressional committees and leadership.

Definitions

The bill includes definitions to clarify key terms:

• Appropriate Congressional Committees:
  • Senate: Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
  • House of Representatives: Committee on Education and Workforce and Committee on Homeland Security.
• Congressional Leadership:
  • Majority and minority leaders of the Senate.
  • Speaker and minority leader of the House of Representatives.
• Educational Terms:
  • Definitions for elementary and secondary schools, as well as institutions of higher education, will be based on existing laws.

Relevant Companies

• None found