What Schools Need to Know About Active Shooter Readiness, Breaching Tools & Ballistic Shields
Texas House Bill 33
Effective September 1, 2025, the Uvalde Strong Act (HB 33) introduces new state-mandated security requirements for every public school district and open-enrollment charter school in Texas. The law’s intent is clear—prevent the loss of life in active shooter incidents—but for administrators and law enforcement, it brings immediate operational and financial challenges.
🔑 Key Requirements Under HB 33
1. Mandatory Equipment per Campus
- One breaching tool per campus
- One ballistic shield per campus
Both must be readily available for use in an active shooter scenario.
2. Integration into Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs)
- Equipment must be included in multihazard EOPs, security audits, and law enforcement coordination protocols.
3. Training & Interagency Coordination
- Peace officers must complete ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training).
- Agencies must establish mutual aid agreements with DPS and local law enforcement.
4. Audit & Compliance Oversight
- The Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the Texas School Safety Center will monitor compliance.
- Failure to comply could expose schools and agencies to legal liability after a critical incident.
💰 Funding Pathways
While HB 33 does not directly fund these mandates, districts can leverage several state and federal programs:
Texas Ballistic Shield Grant Program
- FY 2025: $4M allocated through the Governor’s Public Safety Office (PSO).
- Eligibility: ISDs, charter schools, and campus law enforcement.
- Requirements: NIJ Level III+ or IV shields assigned to ALERRT-certified officers.
FY 2026 Shield Grant Round
- $250K available. Applications open December 2025, due February 2026.
Additional Options
- DOJ COPS: School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)
- FEMA: Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
- Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), state-administered
⚡ How ROE Tactical & Armor Exchange Can Help
At ROE Tactical and Armor Exchange, we specialize in delivering compliant breaching tools, ballistic shields, and training integration tailored to HB 33 mandates. We partner directly with districts, charter systems, and municipal agencies to streamline:
- Procurement & grant alignment
- Equipment inventory tracking
- ALERRT compliance integration
Whether you’re updating an EOP, drafting a grant application, or budgeting for new security equipment, we provide end-to-end support.
📧 For procurement or government sales assistance: [email protected]
