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Bill

1444XD

School Districts, Threat Assessment Teams and Information Sharing (1444XD) - Public Safety, Department of

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill 1444XD boosts school safety by forming threat assessment teams in districts, allowing information sharing to support at-risk students and enhance intervention efforts.

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Bill Summary · 1444XD

Summary of Bill 1444XD: School Districts, Threat Assessment Teams and Information Sharing

Bill Number: 1444XD
Title: School Districts, Threat Assessment Teams and Information Sharing
Introduced: November 19, 2025
Status: Proposed Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill 1444XD aims to enhance school safety by establishing multidisciplinary threat assessment teams within school districts and accredited nonpublic schools. The primary goal is to facilitate the sharing of critical information among various stakeholders to better assess and intervene in situations where students may pose a threat to themselves or others. This initiative responds to the increasing concerns regarding threats to student safety and aims to create a proactive approach to managing potential risks.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Covered Entities:

    • The bill defines "covered entities" to include:
      • Nonpublic schools
      • Charter schools
      • Innovation zone schools
      • Judicial branches
      • Criminal and juvenile justice agencies
      • Political subdivisions (e.g., cities, counties)
      • State agencies
      • Service providers contracting with the above entities
  2. Information Sharing:

    • Covered entities are authorized to share records and information necessary for ensuring the safety and well-being of students experiencing emotional disturbances or mental health issues.
    • This provision aims to overcome existing legal barriers (such as HIPAA and FERPA) that currently limit information sharing.
  3. Establishment of Threat Assessment Teams:

    • Each school district and accredited nonpublic school is required to establish a multidisciplinary threat assessment team.
    • Team members may include local law enforcement officials, mental health professionals, social services representatives, and school officials.
    • The team will assess and intervene when a student exhibits concerning behavior that may threaten the safety of the school community.
  4. Collaboration and Coordination:

    • The bill encourages collaboration among covered entities to ensure comprehensive support for students at risk.
    • Schools may enter agreements to create joint threat assessment teams, enhancing resource sharing and intervention strategies.
  5. Immunity Provision:

    • Individuals acting in good faith to report or investigate potential threats will be granted immunity from civil liability, provided their actions are reasonable and without malice.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill impacts students enrolled in kindergarten through grade 12, particularly those at risk of emotional disturbances or mental health issues.
    • It also affects school staff, law enforcement, mental health professionals, and other stakeholders involved in student safety.
  • Potential Outcomes:

    • Improved safety and well-being of students through early intervention and resource allocation.
    • Enhanced communication and collaboration among various entities involved in student welfare.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill is currently in the proposed stage and will undergo further legislative processes before becoming law. The timeline for implementation will depend on the legislative schedule and any amendments made during discussions.

This summary provides an overview of Bill 1444XD, highlighting its objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts on school safety and student welfare in Iowa.

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

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