Bill > SB191

This bill requires Texas public school districts to adopt a healthy and safe school water plan to address potential lead contamination in drinking water sources. The plan must include periodic testing of water sources for lead and provisions for reducing exposure to elevated lead levels. If a water source test reveals lead levels exceeding 15 parts per billion (ppb), the school district must immediately restrict access to that water source within 48 hours, determine and mitigate the lead contamination source, and only restore normal access after a subsequent test shows lead levels below 15 ppb. The Texas Education Agency, in collaboration with other state agencies and stakeholders, will develop a model water plan that districts can use as a guide. The agency will also aim to establish a reimbursement program for lead testing, subject to available funding. The bill requires the Texas Education Agency to develop the model plan by December 31, 2025, and mandates that all school districts and open-enrollment charter schools adopt their own healthy and safe school water plans by September 1, 2026. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or otherwise will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB191