House backs bill letting schools use approved classroom door‑securement devices, asks fire marshal for standards

The Wyoming House Committee of the Whole recommended passage of House Bill 31 on Jan. 30, 2025. The measure directs school boards to adopt safety procedures and requires the State Fire Marshal to provide each district with a list of door‑securement devices appropriate for k‑12 school buildings.

Representative Tom Pendergraft, the bill’s sponsor, said the measure responds to a practical problem districts reported: local deputies and school staff had identified devices that helped secure classrooms during drills, but the State Fire Marshal had not provided a list of approved devices, leaving districts uncertain or unable to use them. The committee amendment directs the fire marshal to deliver the list “not later than 07/01/2025” and permits the marshal to update the list annually.

Supporters framed the bill as restoring local control and clarifying which devices are allowed; Representative Connolly told the committee she would not have been able to vote for the bill absent the fire marshal requirement. Opponents raised procedural questions during floor consideration about the marshal’s capacity and about the relation to adopted international fire codes; supporters replied that participating agencies had told the committee a list could be created in short order.

Committee action: The standing committee amendment providing the fire marshal’s timeline and list requirement was divided in two on the floor; the portion requiring immediate allowance of devices was approved. The Committee of the Whole recommended HB31 do pass. Supporters said the bill allows districts to use equipment they already have on hand while the marshal provides statewide guidance.

Next steps: HB31 advances to second reading; the fire marshal and school districts will be expected to coordinate on an approved list and implementation.