Bill > SB1445

This bill amends Texas education law to strengthen provisions related to bullying and cyberbullying in public schools. It expands the definition of bullying to explicitly include targeting students based on their actual or perceived religion, disability status, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, or group associations. The bill requires school districts to adopt comprehensive policies that not only prohibit bullying but also establish detailed procedures for preventing, reporting, and investigating bullying incidents. School employees are now mandated to report potential bullying to campus behavior coordinators, and districts must provide supportive, non-punitive measures to students impacted by bullying, such as counseling, schedule modifications, and escort services. The bill also requires schools to conduct thorough investigations within 10 business days, provide written notice to affected students and parents, and allow students to appeal investigative findings. Additionally, schools must collect annual data on bullying incidents, including those involving cyberbullying or targeting specific characteristics, and must report this information through the Public Education Information Management System. These new requirements aim to create a more comprehensive and proactive approach to addressing bullying in Texas schools, with implementation set to begin in the 2025-2026 school year.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1445