SB 905 creates a new section in Missouri law establishing a POST Commission-run training program called the “Missouri Rangers.” The program is designed to prepare school-based personnel to prevent and respond to emergency or violent crisis situations in schools. It sets minimum standards for instructors, training centers, and training content, and requires applicants to undergo a criminal history background check, including FBI records, before entering training.
The bill also requires applicants to pass a physical fitness test, with age-adjusted standards to be set by POST for older applicants, and bars former or retired military personnel from admission unless they received an honorable discharge. The training curriculum must include topics such as close-quarters combat, building security, de-escalation, implicit and racial bias, active shooter response, threat assessment, constitutional and statutory law on search and seizure, firearms training, defensive tactics, and first aid. POST may also create abbreviated training for active or retired law enforcement and military personnel, and may develop a part-time version of the program.
Impact
The bill would add section 590.1300 to Missouri statutes and expand the authority of the POST Commission to regulate a new school security training and certification program. It authorizes Missouri Rangers, once trained and approved, to carry firearms or other lethal weapons on school property and school buses if permitted by the hiring school or district, and limits their arrest powers to school-related property and certain offenses involving school property. It also treats Missouri Rangers as school employees for liability and workers’ compensation purposes, while leaving other benefits to the discretion of the school or district.
Sentiment
The voting history suggests the bill had meaningful support but also notable opposition. It passed the Senate with strong margins on third reading, but the House vote was more divided, indicating broader concern or disagreement there. Overall, the bill appears to have been viewed as a school safety measure, with supporters likely emphasizing preparedness and crisis response, while opponents likely focused on the expansion of armed personnel in schools and the scope of arrest and weapon-carrying authority.
Contention
The main points of contention appear to be the creation of an armed school security role, the extent of authority granted to Missouri Rangers, and the training standards required to qualify. The bill’s allowance for carrying firearms on school property, its limited arrest powers, and its treatment of rangers as employees for liability purposes are likely the most debated provisions. The physical fitness requirements, background check provisions, and restrictions on former or retired military applicants may also have drawn scrutiny from those concerned about access, qualifications, and implementation.