July 1, 2025

New Alabama Law Allows Private Schools to Hire SROs

By Dale Hines
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News

July 1, 2025

MONTGOMERY Ala. Thousands of families across the state have taken advantage of the new school choice program that allows parents to choose which school is right for their child and now a new law allows private and charter schools to partner with local governments to hire school resource officers (SROs), providing what supporters say is a critical boost in campus safety.

Senate Bill 4, passed during the most recent legislative session, and created a legal pathway for private entities to fund law enforcement salaries through agreements with municipal or county agencies.

Some private schools do currently use private contract security officers or their own staff to provide physical campus security but prior to this new law, the schools were not able to hire area law enforcement to provide such services.

“This law now allows private or church-based schools to have a consistent, full-time officer or deputy assigned to their campus,” said Russell Bedsole with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. “It’s

While the bill opens the door for new partnerships, it includes provisions to ensure public schools remain the top priority.

Law enforcement agencies must provide coverage to all public schools in their jurisdiction before entering agreements with private institutions.

“The last thing we want is to divert resources away from public schools,” Bedsole said. “This law ensures everyone is protected—public and private alike.”

Supporters say the benefits go beyond safety. The presence of a consistent school resource officer (SRO) can also foster mentorship and improve relationships between students and law enforcement.

“It’s always about the kids,” said Mac Hardy, director of operations for the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). “Our officers aren’t just law enforcement—they’re mentors and positive role models.”

The bill also aims to help law enforcement agencies with recruitment, giving students the opportunity to see law enforcement officers in a new light.

Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law earlier this year and as of June 1, all private and charter schools across Alabama now have the option to hire SROs through their local or county governments.