WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 458

EDUCATION – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding the requirement for safe public school facilities.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 458 mandates annual safety inspections for Idaho public schools, ensuring safe environments for students and imposing fines for non-compliance.

Reported Printed and Referred to Education
#buildings #education #employersandemployees #safety #schoolsandschooldistricts
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 458

Summary of House Bill 458 (H 458)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 458 (H 458) aims to enhance the safety and health standards of public school facilities in Idaho. The bill seeks to address existing safety concerns in schools, ensuring that children learn in environments that are safe and conducive to their education. By amending Idaho Code 33-1613, the legislation establishes stricter requirements for facility inspections, abatement of hazardous conditions, and accountability measures for school districts.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to existing law:

  1. Definition of Public School Facilities:

    • Clarifies that "public school facilities" include all physical properties owned or operated by school districts or charter schools, such as buildings, playgrounds, and athletic fields.

  2. Mandatory Inspections:

    • Requires annual independent inspections of school facilities to ensure compliance with safety and health codes, including checks for electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and structural integrity.
    • Specific testing for radon, mold, and lead is mandated based on certain conditions, such as the age of the building or the presence of moisture.

  3. Abatement Requirements:

    • Schools must promptly address and abate any identified unsafe or unhealthy conditions, including high levels of radon.
    • A report must be issued within the same school year detailing any unresolved safety issues.

  4. Reporting Obligations:

    • Schools are required to inform parents and guardians about any violations or serious safety hazards.
    • The state board of education will establish rules for uniform reporting of safety conditions and abatement efforts.

  5. Fines for Non-compliance:

    • Schools that fail to comply with reporting requirements may face fines of up to $5,000 for each violation and $1,000 for each day of continued violation.
    • Collected fines will be deposited into the school district facilities fund.

  6. Abatement Plans:

    • If a school cannot address all safety issues with available funds, it must develop a plan for abatement, including a timeline for completion.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill primarily impacts public school districts, charter schools, students, and their families. It aims to protect the health and safety of students and staff by ensuring that school facilities meet established safety standards.
  • Financial Implications: The fiscal note indicates that the cost of necessary abatement could reach up to $29 million, which may affect the general fund if not covered by capital project funding.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: March 26, 2025
  • Current Status: Reported printed and referred to the Education Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 458 represents a significant step toward improving the safety and health standards of Idaho's public school facilities. By mandating rigorous inspections and accountability measures, the bill seeks to ensure that all students learn in safe environments, thereby reaffirming the state's commitment to educational safety and well-being.

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

Sign in to ask a question.