Bill > SB2986

This bill provides guidelines for religious organizations using facilities at public schools and higher education institutions in Texas. Specifically, the bill allows school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and institutions of higher education to permit religious organizations to host worship services, sermons, or assemblies, but with several important conditions. These conditions include ensuring that such use does not interfere with the primary educational mission of the institution, requiring the religious organization to pay fair market rental value or reimburse for associated costs, holding the religious organization liable for any damages, and subjecting them to the same rental terms as non-religious organizations. The bill explicitly states that facilities cannot be used during regular school hours, religious organizations cannot display signage or promotional materials outside of their approved use period, and the institution cannot promote the religious organization's use. Importantly, the bill also protects these educational institutions from potential penalties or funding cuts by state agencies if they choose to allow or not allow religious organizations to use their facilities. The legislation will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will not retroactively impact existing contracts unless they are renewed, modified, or extended after that date.

Education, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2986