Bill > HB1279

This bill aims to prohibit teaching certain concepts related to personal identity characteristics in Texas public elementary and secondary schools. The bill defines "personal identity characteristics" and outlines several specific instructional practices that would be forbidden, such as teaching that one characteristic is inherently superior or inferior, suggesting that individuals are inherently privileged or oppressed based on their characteristics, or promoting resentment between individuals due to their personal identity traits. Schools would be prohibited from instructing students that an individual's moral character is determined by their personal characteristics, or that they should feel guilt or psychological distress because of their identity. The bill establishes legal mechanisms for enforcement, allowing individuals and the attorney general to file lawsuits to stop violations, with potential court-assessed litigation costs. Furthermore, starting January 1, 2026, educators who knowingly engage in prohibited instructional practices could face criminal misdemeanor charges, with potential penalties including fines between $100-$500, up to six months in county jail, or both. The bill allows for impartial discussions of ideologies, provided they do not encourage or impose prohibited beliefs. The legislation would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if not.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1279