Bill > HB1405

This bill strengthens existing Texas education law regarding bullying and cyberbullying in public schools by expanding definitions, reporting requirements, and district responsibilities. The bill broadens the definition of bullying to include targeting students based on characteristics like religion, race, disability status, and sex, and expands cyberbullying to include artificial intelligence-based communication tools. School districts must now adopt policies that require employees to report bullying incidents, provide written notice to impacted students and parents, conduct thorough investigations within 10 business days, and offer supportive measures to affected students at no cost. These supportive measures can include counseling, schedule modifications, escorted campus movement, and transfer options. The bill also mandates that districts collect annual data on bullying incidents, specifying the number of cyberbullying cases and incidents targeting students based on specific characteristics. Additionally, the Texas Education Agency must develop minimum standards emphasizing prevention, relationship-building, and creating a culture of understanding and respect. The new regulations will take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, giving districts time to prepare and implement the required changes.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1405