Video surveillance cameras; require in certain areas of school facilities for protection of exceptional children.

HB 791 requires Mississippi school districts to install audio-capable video surveillance cameras in self-contained classrooms for exceptional students, as well as in gyms, hallways, cafeterias, and exterior building areas. It restricts access to footage to district superintendents, principals, and licensed school personnel, with specific privacy protections for students not involved in incidents under investigation. Districts may contract external companies for monitoring but must follow public bidding procedures, and the cameras eliminate the need for daily security staff or immediate police presence on school premises. The bill also connects to Mississippi’s School Safety Grant Program, which can fund surveillance equipment as part of broader safety plans. (Note: The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025.)