Bill > HB497

This bill amends the Texas Education Code to require school district employees to obtain written parental consent before providing students with behavioral or mental health services or treatment. Specifically, the bill expands existing consent requirements to include obtaining parental permission before providing services such as contraceptives (including emergency contraceptives) and informational materials related to family planning, human sexuality, or mental health. The new requirements will apply starting with the 2025-2026 school year. The bill is designed to ensure parents have more control and awareness of the behavioral and mental health services their children might receive at school. The legislation will take effect either immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the immediate voting threshold. This bill represents an effort to increase parental involvement in decisions about their children's health-related services in the school setting.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB497