Texas House Bill HB1106

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the number of school marshals that may be appointed to serve on a public school campus or at a private school.

Impact

The amendment to the Education Code is significant as it directly affects how school districts and private schools can appoint personnel for campus safety. By permitting multiple marshals per campus without the previous restrictions, the legislation is intended to bolster the safety measures in public and private educational settings. This may lead to increased security presence on campuses, potentially deterring acts of violence or misconduct and fostering a safer environment for students and staff.

Summary

House Bill 1106 proposes changes to the Texas Education Code concerning the appointment of school marshals in public and private schools. The bill allows for the appointment of one or more school marshals at each campus, modifying earlier provisions that limited the number of marshals based on a per-student ratio or facility structure. This change aims to enhance campus safety by providing more flexibility in the deployment of personnel tasked with maintaining security within educational institutions.

Contention

While HB 1106 is positioned as a necessary response to growing safety concerns in schools, it also raises questions about the implications of having more armed personnel on campuses. Critics may argue that this could lead to an escalation in confrontational situations or change the dynamic of the school environment. The discussion around the appropriateness and effectiveness of school marshals in achieving the intended safety outcomes may become a focal point of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.