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Bill

HB 268

RELATING TO SEX-BASED ATHLETIC COMPETITIONS IN SPORTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Alcos and 2 co-sponsors

HB 268 mandates safety measures in Georgia schools, including a mobile alert system and behavioral health support, ensuring fair and secure athletic competitions for students.

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#athletics #competitions #education #gender #sex #sports
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Bill Summary · HB 268

Summary of House Bill 268 (HB 268)

Overview

House Bill 268, titled "Relating to Sex-Based Athletic Competitions in Sports," was introduced on February 4, 2025. The bill aims to amend various chapters of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, focusing on the safety, health, and well-being of students and school communities, particularly in the context of athletic competitions.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 268 is to establish regulations regarding sex-based athletic competitions in public schools. The bill seeks to ensure fair competition and protect the rights of all students participating in school sports.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Mobile Panic Alert System:

    • Requires public schools to implement a mobile panic alert system by July 1, 2026, known as "Alyssa's Alert," which will facilitate real-time coordination between local and state law enforcement during emergencies.

  2. Behavioral Health Initiatives:

    • Mandates the hiring of qualified behavioral health coordinators in local school systems, with reimbursement grants provided for this purpose.
    • Establishes requirements for youth violence and suicide awareness training for school staff.

  3. Student Records Management:

    • Facilitates the transfer of student records among schools and relevant agencies, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with legal standards.
    • Introduces provisions for provisional enrollment at receiving schools and the transfer of students seeking enrollment in grades higher than fifth.

  4. School Safety Plans:

    • Requires public schools to update safety plans to include behavioral threat assessment management strategies.
    • Establishes an Office of Safe Schools within the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to oversee school safety best practices.

  5. Terroristic Threats:

    • Amends existing laws to include penalties for making terroristic threats against schools, with provisions for holding parents accountable for their children's actions.

  6. Anonymous Reporting:

    • Implements a state-wide anonymous reporting program for students to report threats or concerns regarding school safety.

Impact

The bill will primarily affect:
- Students: Ensures a safer environment for participation in sports and other school activities.
- Schools: Mandates the implementation of new safety protocols and training programs.
- Law Enforcement: Enhances coordination between schools and emergency services during crises.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 4, 2025: Bill introduced and passed the first reading.
  • March 4, 2025: Passed by the House and sent to the Senate.
  • March 31, 2025: Senate passed the bill by substitute.
  • April 28, 2025: Signed by the Governor and became Act 17, effective immediately.

Conclusion

HB 268 represents a comprehensive approach to enhancing safety and fairness in school athletic competitions and overall student welfare. By establishing clear guidelines and support systems, the bill aims to create a more equitable environment for all students in Georgia's public schools.

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

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