Texas Senate Bill SB1849

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to public school safety measures, access to mental health professionals in public schools and during certain emergencies, access to criminal history and mental health records, and access to firearms; requiring a certificate for employment as a school behavioral counselor; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

If enacted, SB1849 will significantly alter the legislative landscape regarding school safety and security by establishing new requirements for schools to meet certain safety standards and improve access to mental health resources. The bill aims to create safer environments for students and staff by mitigating risks associated with both mental health crises and potential violence. It will integrate requirements for security audits and emergency operations plans that all school districts must follow.

Summary

SB1849 addresses comprehensive measures relating to safety in public schools, emphasizing the access to mental health professionals during emergencies and enhancing security protocols. The bill mandates that school districts implement safety measures including the construction and renovation of school facilities to improve security. Notably, the bill proposes access to criminal history and mental health records to ensure that individuals working in schools are fit for their positions, mandating certification for school behavioral counselors.

Contention

One of the noteworthy points of contention surrounding SB1849 is the balance between safety measures and the implications for personal freedoms, particularly concerning firearm access. The bill proposes that a person commits a criminal offense if they fail to secure a firearm that a child gains access to, raising debates about regulation versus individual rights. This aspect has sparked conversations about the potential for increased criminal liability for firearm owners and whether it adequately addresses the root issues of school safety.