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HB 423

Student Elopement

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Bankson and 21 co-sponsors

HB 423 requires public schools to form SAFE Teams and create elopement plans to protect students with disabilities, enhancing safety and response to elopement incidents.

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Bill Summary · HB 423

Summary of HB 423: Student Elopement

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 423
- Title: Student Elopement
- Status: Filed
- Introduced: November 13, 2025
- Effective Date: July 1, 2026
- Primary Sponsor: Eskamani

Purpose and Intent

HB 423 aims to enhance the safety of students with disabilities, particularly those at risk of elopement, by mandating the establishment of a structured response system within public schools. The bill seeks to ensure that schools are prepared to respond effectively when a student with a documented history of elopement leaves a designated area without authorization.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several critical requirements for public schools:

  1. Creation of SAFE Teams:

    • Each public school must form a School Staff Assistance for Emergencies (SAFE) Team responsible for managing elopement incidents.

  2. Elopement Plans:

    • Schools are required to develop a comprehensive elopement plan that includes:
      • Immediate contact procedures for parents or guardians when a student elopes.
      • Coordination of on-campus searches and emergency services when necessary.

  3. SAFE Team Composition:

    • The SAFE Team must include the school principal, an assistant principal, and at least three additional members, including a school resource officer.

  4. Training and Updates:

    • The SAFE Team is tasked with training all school personnel on the elopement plan and must update the plan annually.

  5. Student-Specific Quick Reference Guides:

    • For students prone to elopement, the SAFE Team must create individualized elopement quick reference guides that include:
      • Identifying information and a current photograph of the student.
      • Communication abilities, interests, and health considerations.
      • Potential locations the student may go when eloping.
      • Any available GPS technology to assist in locating the student.

  6. Annual Reporting:

    • Schools must submit their elopement plans to the district school board each year.

  7. Rule Adoption:

    • The State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules for the administration of this section.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • This legislation primarily impacts public schools, students with disabilities (particularly those with autism or intellectual disabilities), and their families.

  • Safety Enhancements:

    • By implementing these measures, the bill aims to reduce the risks associated with elopement, ensuring that schools are better equipped to protect vulnerable students.

Conclusion

HB 423 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding students with disabilities who are at risk of elopement. By establishing clear protocols and responsibilities within schools, the bill seeks to enhance the overall safety and well-being of these students, fostering a more supportive educational environment.

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

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