Bill > HB5381

This bill, named Rocky's Law, extends educational protections for military children by expanding the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3). The bill broadens the compact's coverage to include children of veterans who have retired and children of service members who died on active duty, providing them with educational support for four years after retirement or death. Schools with websites must now include an easily accessible link to MIC3 information. The bill also updates the definition of "active duty" and modifies the State Advisory Council by adding a classroom teacher from a Department of Defense school to its membership. The new provisions will take effect in the 2025-2026 school year and cover children from uniformed services including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Marine Corps, National Guard and Reserve, Coast Guard, and Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Public Health Service. The bill aims to provide additional educational support and continuity for military families by ensuring smoother transitions and access to educational resources when students move or face challenges related to military service.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5381