Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1273

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to human sexuality education in public schools.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1273 would amend existing education codes to introduce formal provisions surrounding the teaching of human sexuality. It outlines detailed content requirements that schools must include in their curricula, such as discussions on human sexuality, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections. The bill also dictates the terms under which parents may review educational materials and opt-out provisions for their children, reinforcing parental rights in educational settings. These changes could significantly alter how sexuality education is delivered across Texas and may lead to more inclusive content in curricula.

Summary

House Bill 1273 pertains to human sexuality education within public schools in Texas. Its primary aim is to establish comprehensive guidelines that ensure the education on human sexuality is both age-appropriate and medically accurate. The bill mandates school districts to provide sexual education that includes affirming information regarding gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, alongside an emphasis on consent, healthy relationships, and sexual health. Additionally, it specifies the responsibilities of the State Board of Education in adopting curricular frameworks that meet these criteria.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 1273 represents a significant shift in Texas education policy, desiring to provide a more comprehensive understanding of human sexuality that addresses various aspects of sexual health and rights. The bill's passage could yield long-term impacts on student education and community acceptance of diverse identities.

Contention

Notably, there are points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the inclusion of topics related to gender identity and sexual orientation in school curricula. Supporters argue that such inclusivity is vital for fostering understanding and acceptance among students, while opponents may view it as inappropriate for certain age groups. Concerns about compliance with parental expectations regarding content and the appropriateness of discussions regarding sexual behaviors in school settings may also emerge as the discussion continues.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 12. Charters
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4017

Relating to human sexuality education in public schools.

TX HB4016

Relating to healthy relationships education in public schools.

TX SB1072

Relating to local school health advisory councils and instruction regarding human sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity provided by public schools.

TX HB2101

Relating to the grade levels at which human sexuality instruction may be provided in public schools.

TX SB1731

Relating to human sexuality instruction provided by public schools.

TX SB1880

Relating to the grievance procedure in public schools.

TX HB498

Relating to policies and procedures for addressing bullying and harassment in public schools.

TX HB4530

Relating to instruction in human trafficking awareness in public schools.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB3908

Relating to fentanyl abuse prevention and drug poisoning awareness education in public schools.

Similar Bills

TX SB442

Relating to local school health advisory councils and health education provided by public schools, including requirements regarding human sexuality instruction.

TX HB1525

Relating to the public school finance system and public education.

TX HB1605

Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.

TX SB2565

Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and creating allotments for the procurement of certain instructional materials under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4017

Relating to human sexuality education in public schools.

TX HB6

Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.