Relating to access to the registry of persons who are not eligible for employment at public schools.
Impact
The impact of HB 3791 on state laws includes a broader scope of accessibility for the employment registry, which is essential for safeguarding students in various educational environments. By extending access to private schools and certain nonprofit organizations, the bill seeks to unify the safety standards across different educational domains. This legislation represents a strategic move towards reinforcing children’s safety by creating a standardized approach to employment eligibility verification within the education system.
Summary
House Bill 3791 aims to enhance the accessibility of the registry that identifies individuals who are not eligible for employment within public schools. The bill proposes amendments to Section 22.092 of the Education Code, expanding access to this critical information beyond just public schools to include private schools, certain nonprofit organizations, and entities contracted to operate school district campuses. This change is expected to contribute to a safer educational environment by ensuring that more educational institutions have the necessary information to prevent unsuitable candidates from being hired.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3791 appears to be generally positive, with many stakeholders acknowledging the importance of having integrated safety measures across diverse educational settings. Supporters of the bill, including educational administrators and advocacy groups, argue that this legislation is a necessary enhancement to existing protocols. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implementation and the management of the expanded access to the registry, as maintaining data privacy and handling sensitive information is paramount.
Contention
One notable point of contention may arise around data privacy and the management of the information in the registry. While the intention of HB 3791 is to increase safety, there are questions on how the additional entities will handle this sensitive information and ensure compliance with legal standards. Additionally, potential costs associated with providing access and training on the use of the registry could be a concern for some institutions. Thus, ongoing discussions may focus on achieving a balance between enhanced safety and privacy considerations.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
Relating to the eligibility of certain persons to provide services as an employee, volunteer, or contractor for certain agencies, including public school contractors, and access to the registry of persons who are not eligible for employment at public schools.
Relating to the eligibility of certain persons to provide services as an employee, volunteer, or contractor for certain agencies, including public school contractors, and access to the registry of persons who are not eligible for employment at public schools.
Relating to misconduct by public school employees and to persons who must be listed in the registry of persons not eligible for employment in public schools.
Relating to prohibiting private schools from hiring persons in the registry of persons not eligible for employment in schools and to persons who must be listed in that registry.