Bill > SB1743

This bill establishes the Office of Inspector General for Education within the Texas Education Agency, creating a new independent division responsible for investigating misconduct, fraud, and potential threats within educational institutions. The inspector general will be appointed by the board with specific qualifications, including certification as an inspector general investigator and expertise in areas like law, fraud investigation, and government operations. The office will have broad investigative powers, including issuing subpoenas, accessing records, and investigating allegations of employee misconduct such as abuse, sexual relationships with students, illegal substance activities, and financial improprieties. The bill mandates that school districts and educational entities promptly report certain types of employee misconduct to the inspector general, with strict timelines and potential penalties for failing to do so. Additionally, the legislation provides protections for individuals reporting misconduct, requires detailed record-keeping of investigations, and establishes protocols for sharing information with law enforcement and other agencies. The inspector general must submit semiannual and annual reports to state leadership, and the bill creates criminal penalties for interfering with investigations, making this a comprehensive effort to enhance oversight and accountability in the Texas educational system.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1743