AI-Powered Surveillance Cameras To Combat School Gun Violence In US: Report

US lawmakers are considering implementing AI-powered cameras to detect firearms on school grounds, following a significant rise in school shootings.

In an effort to bolster school safety after a rise in shootings nationwide, lawmakers in US state of Kansas are proposing the use of AI-powered camera systems to detect firearms on school grounds. The technology, developed by ZeroEyes, a firm founded by military veterans, would trigger alerts for human verification by former law enforcement and military personnel before dispatching authorities.

This proposal comes after a surge in school shootings, with 2021, 2022, and 2023 recording the highest numbers since at least 2008, according to CNN. In 2023 alone, there were at least 82 incidents, with 2022 being particularly deadly with 46 fatalities.

According to a report by Interesting Engineering, Kansas may offer up to $5 million in grants to equip schools with these AI-backed cameras. However, approval by Governor Laura Kelly is pending, and schools would need to meet specific criteria. These include using patented technology, attaining the "qualified anti-terrorism technology" designation, adhering to security industry standards, and possessing the capability to detect a minimum of 300 subclassifications within three broad firearm categories and at least 2,000 permutations.