Texas House Bill HB4150

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to safety training for certain public school extracurricular activities.

Impact

If enacted, HB4150 would amend Sections 33.202(a) and (c) of the Education Code, requiring all public schools offering extracurricular activities to adopt these training programs. The legislation underscores the importance of training that adheres to recognized standards, potentially improving the effectiveness of response protocols during emergencies. Aligning safety measures across school activities could create uniformity in protocols, making it easier for educators and administrators to manage safety risks effectively.

Summary

House Bill 4150 aims to enhance safety training for public school extracurricular activities. This bill mandates the University Interscholastic League to develop and implement a safety training program designed specifically for participants in these activities. The program, as stipulated by the bill, should incorporate emergency action planning, CPR training, and the identification of catastrophic injury symptoms, particularly emphasizing concussions and heat-related conditions, among others. This training reflects a proactive approach to ensuring the safety of students engaged in various extracurricular activities.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the implementation and adequacy of the training programs proposed in the bill. Critics may argue about the feasibility of integrating extensive training into existing school programs, as well as the costs associated with certifying personnel and conducting drills. Additionally, some stakeholders might express concerns regarding the sufficiency of the training content, particularly if it adequately prepares staff and students for diverse emergency situations that could arise during extracurricular events.