SF4891

Purpose

• To update the State Fire Code so schools must have a comprehensive, multilayered security system to protect students from armed attacks. The change adds a new rulemaking requirement to determine the specific security measures.

Main Provisions

• The commissioner must adopt rules as part of the State Fire Code requiring schools to protect students from armed attack with a comprehensive multilayered integrated security system.
• The exact requirements will be decided during the rulemaking process and may include, without limitation, the following:
  • bulletresistant interior doors and windows
  • ballistic wall panels
  • magnetic doorlocking systems
  • remote lockdown activation systems
  • a mass notification system unified with an emergency communication system
  • an emergency building access system for first responders including fire, emergency medical services, and law enforcement personnel
  • an access control system with remote doorrelease capabilities
  • electronic access controls for main distribution frame and independent distribution frame rooms with a key override
  • classroom duress alarms linked to a law enforcement and administration notification system
  • security system training for staff to initiate emergency protocols
  • ballistic security glass for interior door vision panels and sidelites
  • electronic access control systems for primary building entrances and classroom door installations that optimize safety and security

Changes to Existing Law

• Adds Subd. 4d to Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 299F.011 (School safety), establishing a requirement for rulemaking to implement school security measures as part of the State Fire Code.

Rulemaking and Implementation

• The specifics will be determined through the rulemaking process led by the commissioner and incorporated into the State Fire Code. This process will set the exact standards and requirements referenced above.

Implementation Scope (Summary)

• Applies to Minnesota schools and requires integration with emergency services (police, fire, EMS) and school administration.
• Emphasizes both defensive hardware (doors, glazing, alarms) and systems (communications, access control, training) to create a coordinated security approach.

Relevant Terms - State Fire Code - school security systems - multilayered integrated security system - bulletresistant interior doors and windows - ballistic wall panels - magnetic doorlocking systems - remote lockdown activation systems - mass notification system - emergency communication system - emergency building access system - first responders (fire, EMS, law enforcement) - access control system - remote doorrelease capabilities - electronic access controls - main distribution frame rooms - independent distribution frame rooms - classroom duress alarms - law enforcement notification system - security system training - ballistic security glass - interior door vision panels - sidelites - primary building entrances - classroom door installations - rulemaking