Schools are using artificial intelligence to detect guns as companies advocate for state funding | WGN Radio 720

Kansas House K-12 Education Budget Committee Chair Kristey Williams is making waves with a new provision in a $6 billion school funding bill that could revolutionize school safety. The provision directs up to $5 million in grants to school districts to install technology from a company called ZeroEyes, which uses artificial intelligence to identify firearms and quickly notify law enforcement.

The AI software must meet specific criteria, including being patented, designated as qualified anti-terrorism technology, and already in use in at least 30 states. ZeroEyes is currently the only company that meets all these requirements, making it a frontrunner in the school security industry.

ZeroEyes was founded by military veterans after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. Their technology uses surveillance cameras to detect visible guns and alerts a team of former law enforcement officers and military veterans who then notify school officials and local authorities.

While the technology is impressive, some question the legislative tactics used to promote ZeroEyes. Critics argue that the super-specific criteria in the Kansas bill create an anti-competitive environment and may limit other school safety efforts. However, supporters like Rep. Adam Thomas believe that the technology could be a game-changer in preventing gun violence in schools.

With Missouri also passing legislation geared towards ZeroEyes, it seems that school security is becoming a top priority across the country. As more states consider implementing similar programs, the debate over the best approach to school safety continues.