SCHOOL TEACHERS ON-SITE PROTECTION ACT

SB 256, the "School Teachers On-Site Protection Act," would require New Mexico's Department of Public Safety to create a training program enabling school employees (like teachers and staff) who already hold concealed handgun permits to carry firearms on school grounds. To qualify, participants must complete 40 hours of training covering active shooter response, legal use of force, and handgun proficiency, pass a psychological evaluation, and be appointed by a school administrator. The bill establishes a license for these "appointed school employees," with renewal requiring refresher training and re-evaluation every two years. The bill is currently pending, having been postponed indefinitely in June 2025.