TX
Texas Senate Bill SB164

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB164

Filed
11/14/22  
Out of Senate Committee
4/6/23  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the display of the national motto and the founding documents of the United States in public schools and the inclusion of an elective course on the founding principles of the United States in the curriculum for public high school students.

Impact

If enacted, SB164 could significantly influence school curricula by promoting a standardized educational approach concerning the nation's history and government principles. Proponents argue this reinforces patriotism and civic awareness, while opponents may view it as an imposition on local control of education, potentially limiting diversity of thought in educational settings.

Summary

SB164 mandates the display of the national motto 'In God We Trust' and critical founding documents of the United States in all public elementary and secondary schools. Additionally, it requires the establishment of an elective course focusing on the principles of the United States government, the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and writings from the Founding Fathers. The bill aims to instill knowledge of American foundational values in students while ensuring uniformity in educational content across Texas schools.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding SB164 centers on the balance between standardizing educational content and allowing local school districts to maintain autonomy over their curricula. Critics may express concerns that mandated displays and courses could overshadow other important educational content and perspectives, highlighting the potential conflict between national mandates and local educational needs.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1776

Relating to the inclusion of an elective course on the founding principles of the United States in the curriculum for public high school students and the posting of the founding documents of the United States in public school buildings.

TX HB1776

Relating to the inclusion of an elective course on the founding principles of the United States in the curriculum for public high school students and the posting of the founding documents of the United States in public school buildings.

TX SB1721

Relating to the display of the national motto and historically significant documents to the founding of the United States in public schools and institutions of higher education.

TX SB32

Relating to the display of the national motto and historically significant documents to the founding of the United States in public schools and institutions of higher education.

TX SB665

Relating to inclusion of a course on the founding principles of the United States in the curriculum requirements for public high school students and the posting of the founding documents of the United States in public school buildings.

TX SB174

Relating to inclusion of a course on the founding principles of the United States in the curriculum requirements for public high school students and the posting of the founding documents of the United States in public school buildings.

TX SB1776

Relating to the development of an elective course for public high school students on the founding principles of the United States and the posting of the founding documents of the United States in public school buildings.

TX SB797

Relating to the display of the national motto in public schools and institutions of higher education.

TX HB1218

Relating to the display of the national motto in public schools and institutions of higher education.

TX SB251

Displaying official motto of United States in public schools and institutions of higher education

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.