Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2721

Caption

Relating to prohibiting a student from participating in future extracurricular activities for certain conduct involving the assault of an extracurricular activity official.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2721 will significantly amend the Education Code in Texas, introducing provisions that enhance disciplinary measures for students involved in violent incidents during extracurricular activities. The bill allows for a prohibitive period where students cannot engage in any related activities, followed by a potential avenue for reinstatement after completing anger management courses and other conditions set by the University Interscholastic League (UIL). This framework not only highlights accountability among students but also aims to deter future incidents of violence in school-related events.

Summary

House Bill 2721 seeks to establish stricter regulations concerning student conduct during extracurricular activities, particularly in relation to instances of assault against officials, such as referees or judges. The bill stipulates that any student who is determined to have intentionally or recklessly caused bodily injury to an extracurricular official in retaliation for their actions may be barred from participating in future extracurricular activities. This legislative measure aims to promote respectful conduct within school sports and other competitive events, reflecting a growing concern for the safety of officials who oversee these activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2721 appears to be generally supportive as it addresses a critical issue of safety within school environments, especially in relation to sports and extracurricular activities. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward ensuring that officials, who often face undue hostility, can perform their duties without fear of physical retaliation. However, there could be concerns regarding the proportionality of punishment and the potential impact on students’ futures, especially for those who may act out in moments of intense pressure or stress.

Contention

Notable points of contention surround the bill's approach to disciplinary action against students. Critics may argue that while the intention to protect officials is valid, the mechanism for rehabilitation and the conditions for reinstatement could be perceived as overly punitive, potentially affecting students' academic and social development. Furthermore, there are discussions surrounding the implementation of anger management courses and who will oversee the pedagogical effectiveness of such programs. As schools and the UIL streamline how this bill is enacted, it will be vital to balance the interests of safety with the educational rights of students.

Companion Bills

TX SB619

Same As Relating to prohibiting a student from participating in future extracurricular activities for certain conduct involving the assault of an extracurricular activity official.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2484

Relating to the safety of a referee, judge, or other official at certain public school extracurricular activities and competitions and prohibiting certain conduct by a spectator related to those officials' safety.

TX SB2438

Relating to the safety of a referee, judge, or other official at a public school extracurricular activity and prohibiting certain conduct by a spectator related to those officials' safety.

TX HB4302

Relating to the appeal of certain decisions concerning student participation in extracurricular activities.

TX SB979

Relating to safety training for certain public school extracurricular activities.

TX HB1802

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX SB971

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX SB649

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX HB23

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX HB97

Relating to certain public school instructional requirements and prohibitions and the incorporation of certain instructional activities as part of student coursework.

TX HB4402

Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.

Similar Bills

DE HB263

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Meal Debt Restrictions On Student Participation In Extracurricular Activities.

LA SB182

Provides relative to cocurricular and extracurricular activities, including interscholastic athletics. (8/1/13)

MI HB5408

Education: athletics; requirement that the board of a school district or intermediate school district permit children who are homeschooled to participate in extracurricular activities at the school district or intermediate school district under certain circumstances; provide for. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1290.

TX HB4526

Relating to prohibiting participation in or attendance at future extracurricular activities for certain conduct involving the assault of an extracurricular activity official and the safety of an extracurricular activity official.

MS HB1154

Nonpublic school student participation in public school extracurricular activities; prohibit school districts from restricting or denying participation.

MS HB761

Nonpublic school students; prohibit public school districts from restricting participation of in public school extracurricular activities.

CA AB908

Pupils: extracurricular activities: work permits.

MS HB498

"Tim Tebow Act"; establish to provide equal access for homeschoolers to participate in public school extracurricular activities.