Bill > HB3991

This bill expands and clarifies provisions related to misconduct by public school employees, focusing on strengthening reporting requirements and creating more comprehensive guidelines for when educators must be reported to the State Board for Educator Certification. The bill adds "neglect" as a defined term and broadens the list of reportable misconduct to include a wide range of offenses, such as possessing or distributing drugs (including marijuana and dangerous drugs), engaging in offenses involving abusable volatile chemicals, selling alcohol to minors, committing certain criminal offenses on or near school property, and engaging in various types of sexual misconduct with students or minors. The legislation requires school superintendents and directors to notify the State Board of Educator Certification when an employee is terminated or resigns under circumstances indicating serious misconduct, and it mandates that individuals involved in such misconduct can be added to a registry of persons not eligible for employment in public schools. The bill also establishes procedures for hearings and potential challenges to misconduct allegations, ensuring due process while maintaining a focus on student safety. These changes will take effect with the 2025-2026 school year, subject to receiving the necessary legislative approval.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3991