Texas House Bill HB3788

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/7/23

Caption

Relating to school district policies on dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB3788 would require school districts to implement stringent policies that not only address the definitions and forms of abuse but also establish clear procedures for handling incidents. This aligns with federal standards from the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. School district peace officers and resource officers will be required to undergo a comprehensive training program to effectively respond to and manage incidents related to these forms of violence, ensuring they are well-equipped to protect and assist students.

Summary

House Bill 3788, authored by Representative Garcia, seeks to strengthen school district policies regarding dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment. The bill mandates that all school districts adopt comprehensive policies that cover these issues and include provisions for reporting and responding to incidents. The intent is to ensure a safe educational environment and to provide resources and training for both students and school personnel, thereby fostering a safer atmosphere within Texas schools.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB3788 appears to be largely supportive, particularly from advocates and organizations focused on family violence and student safety. During committee discussions, representatives emphasized the urgent need to expand existing policies to encompass a broader range of abuses that students face. Supporters expressed hope that the bill will catalyze meaningful change in school environments, helping students who may feel trapped in abusive situations without proper channels for support.

Contention

Despite the general support, there are potential points of contention regarding resource allocation and compliance. Some stakeholders may express concerns about whether school districts have the necessary resources to effectively implement the comprehensive training programs and policies outlined in the bill. Critics might argue that without sufficient funding and support, the bill's ambitious goals could be difficult to achieve, potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement across different districts. The monitoring and reporting mechanisms mandated by the bill could also be seen as cumbersome by those worried about administrative burdens on school officials.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
  • Section: 0812
  • Section: 0831