Bill > HB687

This bill establishes a bullying prevention pilot program for Texas public schools, to be administered by the state education agency. Under the proposed legislation, the agency will develop a research-based program using best practices and expertise from child psychology, mental health, and education professionals. The program will involve awarding grants to school districts that demonstrate a significant need for bullying prevention, with selected districts able to implement the program on up to three campuses. The commissioner of education will establish application criteria for grants, determine how grant money can be used, and may seek additional funding through grants or donations. The agency will provide technical assistance to grant recipients, potentially through regional education service centers. Critically, the program's implementation is contingent on specific appropriation of funds, meaning the commissioner is not obligated to develop the pilot program or award grants without dedicated funding. The bill defines bullying according to existing state law and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, signaling a forward-looking approach to addressing school-based bullying.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB687