Understanding Utah HB-84: What School Guardians Mean for School Safety

23 Jul Understanding Utah HB-84: What School Guardians Mean for School Safety

Posted at 13:51h in Uncategorized by Adam Kerbs 0 Comments

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In 2024, Utah passed House Bill 84 (HB-84), a new law allowing school districts to designate armed “School Guardians”, trained civilians or staff members authorized to carry firearms on school grounds. The legislation is part of Utah’s broader effort to enhance school safety and prevent school-based violence.

As a professional security provider, CBI Security supports thoughtful, well-regulated approaches to protecting educational institutions. Below, we outline the key elements of HB-84, examine its benefits and risks, and provide a professional perspective on why licensed armed security officers may offer the safest, most effective solution.

What Is HB-84?

HB-84 allows local school boards to appoint “School Guardians,” which can include educators, administrators, or other approved individuals. These guardians must:

* Complete extensive firearm and safety training
* Pass a psychological evaluation
* Be certified and authorized by their district
* Maintain active firearm proficiency credentials

Full Bill Text: [Utah Legislature – HB0084](https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0084.html)

Potential Benefits of the School Guardian Program

1. Faster Response Time
Especially in rural areas, School Guardians may be the first line of defense in active threat scenarios.

2. Cost Efficiency
Guardianship programs may be more financially accessible for districts unable to fund full-time School Resource Officers (SROs).

3. Local Control
Districts can customize the approach to reflect their community’s specific safety needs.

Risks & Concerns to Consider

1. Role Confusion and Risk of Misidentification
During an active incident, responding law enforcement may mistake a guardian for a perpetrator if communication and identification aren’t crystal clear.

2. Emotional Complexity
School staff are often emotionally attached to students and coworkers. In life-threatening scenarios, this emotional proximity can impact decision-making under stress.

3. Training Gaps
Guardians are not law enforcement or professional security officers. Even with training, their limited experience in real-world security operations may leave critical gaps in readiness.

Why Professional Armed Security Officers Are a Safer Alternative

While the intent of HB-84 is rooted in community protection, **CBI Security strongly encourages schools to consider hiring licensed professional armed security officers** instead of arming staff. Here’s why:

**Objective Decision-Making**

Professional officers are **emotionally detached** from daily school interactions, allowing for **more rational, split-second decisions** in high-pressure situations. This objectivity is crucial when lives are on the line.

**Advanced, Ongoing Training**

CBI’s armed officers receive:

* Scenario-based training -designed for real-life, high-stress situations, stress inoculation
* Repetitive firearms drills to build muscle memory
* De-escalation techniques -for managing conflict safely
* Biannual recertification – to maintain armed security licensing per [Utah DOPL standards](https://dopl.utah.gov/investigation/armed-private-security/)

Focused Security Mindset

Unlike educators or administrators who juggle multiple roles, licensed security officers are singularly focused on protecting people, monitoring threats, and neutralizing danger. This clear role distinction makes them more effective and reliable in emergencies and high adrenaline situations.

Additional Resources

* [Utah HB-84 – Legislative Bill Text](https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0084.html)
* [Utah Department of Public Safety – School Safety Resources](https://publicsafety.utah.gov/school-safety/)
* [Utah DOPL – Armed Security Licensing](https://dopl.utah.gov/investigation/armed-private-security/)

Final Thoughts

While HB-84 introduces new tools for school safety, decision-makers must weigh the emotional, legal, and tactical challenges of arming school staff.

Professional security officers offer the advantage of expertise, neutrality, and preparedness. Their training, composure, and commitment to ongoing improvement make them a stronger, safer line of defense.

At CBI Security, we stand ready to support Utah schools with licensed, highly trained personnel dedicated to protecting students, staff, and communities.

Need a custom school security consultation or training program?