Bill > SB326

This bill establishes a procedure for public schools and higher education institutions in Texas to determine whether a student's violation of the student code of conduct was motivated by antisemitism. Specifically, when taking disciplinary action against a student, school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and public institutions of higher education must use the definition of antisemitism provided in Section 448.001 of the Government Code, which includes specific examples. The legislation is careful to clarify that it should not be used to punish constitutionally protected speech unless that speech is accompanied by actions that violate the student code of conduct. The bill will take effect for the 2025-2026 school and academic years, and it aims to provide a standardized approach for identifying and addressing antisemitic behavior in educational settings while protecting students' First Amendment rights. Importantly, the bill does not automatically punish students for speech alone, but provides a framework for evaluating whether conduct motivated by antisemitism has occurred within the context of existing student conduct policies.

Education, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB326