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Bill

S 1782

An Act establishing the Massachusetts school safety data grant program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Velis

Massachusetts establishes school safety data grant program to fund schools implementing data collection and analysis systems for improved safety measures.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1782

Legislative bill overview

S 1782 establishes a grant program to provide Massachusetts schools with funding and resources to collect, analyze, and improve school safety data systems. The bill creates a structured mechanism for schools to access grants that support the implementation of data-driven safety initiatives and infrastructure improvements.

Why is this important

School safety has become a significant policy priority nationwide, and data-driven approaches are increasingly viewed as essential for identifying threats and vulnerabilities. By establishing a formal grant program, the bill aims to help schools move beyond reactive responses to safety incidents toward preventive, evidence-based strategies that can reduce risks to students and staff.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and surveillance concerns: Opponents may worry that expanded school safety data collection could infringe on student privacy rights or create surveillance systems that disproportionately target certain student populations
  • Funding adequacy and allocation: Questions remain about whether grant funding levels are sufficient, how funds will be distributed equitably across urban, suburban, and rural districts, and whether this represents new appropriations or reallocation of existing education budgets
  • Data use and oversight: Unclear definitions around what constitutes "safety data," how long it's retained, who can access it, and what safeguards prevent misuse could generate debate among civil liberties advocates and school administrators

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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