SB 1700 - On or before July 1, 2028, this act requires each school district and charter school to install at least one "master key box", as such term is defined in current law, at each school. Each master key box shall be installed at an appropriate location to permit law enforcement officers emergency access to each building and room on school grounds. The school district or charter school shall determine the precise location of each master key box after consultation with local law enforcement agencies, and shall provide local law enforcement agencies with a key or access code that permits access to the contents of the master key box. Each master key box shall contain certain items specified in the act, such as keys to each building and room on school grounds and accurate maps labeling access points, locations of critical emergency response aids, and the areas around each building. The contents of a master key box and the information contained therein shall not be a public record and shall not be made available for public examination. An employee of a school district or charter school is immune from civil liability for damages arising out of the installation and use of master key boxes unless the employee acted with gross negligence or bad faith. This act is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 3174 (2026). OLIVIA SHANNON

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Henderson

Missouri requires public schools to install emergency master key boxes by July 2028 to expedite first responder access during crises.

Second Read and Referred S Education Committee

Legislative bill overview

SB 1700 mandates that all public school districts and charter schools in Missouri install master key boxes by July 1, 2028. Master key boxes are secure external containers that allow emergency responders (police, fire, EMS) rapid access to school buildings during crises without breaking down doors or windows.

Why is this important

School safety and emergency response times are critical during active threats, medical emergencies, or fires. Faster access can reduce response delays that could affect student and staff safety. However, the bill creates a statewide implementation timeline and potential costs for schools already managing tight budgets.

Potential points of contention

Cost burden: Schools must fund installation and maintenance of master key boxes, which could strain already limited budgets without state reimbursement provisions

Security concerns: Master key boxes could pose security risks if improperly maintained, lost, or misused; debate exists over who controls access and key protocols

Implementation logistics: A statewide deadline may be unrealistic for districts with aging infrastructure or administrative capacity issues; no mention of technical standards or specifications