Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4160

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

Caption

Relating to the release of certain video surveillance of special education settings.

Impact

This legislation, if enacted, would significantly impact the management of video surveillance in special education by ensuring that student recordings are safeguarded from unauthorized release. By restricting the subpoena power over these videos, the bill seeks to prevent potential misuse of sensitive footage that could violate student privacy. This change marks a notable shift in how educational institutions handle video recordings, emphasizing a student-centric approach in policy that respects individual privacy rights.

Summary

House Bill 4160 addresses the issue of video surveillance in special education settings by amending Section 29.022 of the Education Code. The bill imposes limitations on how video recordings of students can be handled regarding subpoenas. Specifically, it states that such video recordings are not subject to a subpoena unless the release of the video is authorized under the provisions outlined in the bill. This provision aims to protect the privacy of students in special education environments while balancing the need for accountability in educational settings.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding this bill, especially regarding the balance between privacy and transparency. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in protecting vulnerable students' rights, while opponents may express concerns about the potential lack of accountability for educators and administrators in situations that may warrant oversight through video evidence. The discussion around this bill is likely to center on the implications of privacy protections versus the needs for monitoring and accountability in special education settings.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 29. Educational Programs
    • Section: 022

Government Code

  • Chapter 2001. Administrative Procedure
    • Section: 089

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB776

Relating to the required period of retention of video surveillance recordings of special education settings.

TX HB2234

Relating to certain policies and procedures for the placement and use of video cameras in certain classrooms, including classrooms that provide special education services.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

TX SB448

Relating to a special education liaison program and the provision of certain special education services at public school districts.

TX SB1797

Relating to the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers.

TX HB4093

Relating to the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers.

TX HB1727

Relating to the placement and use of video recording equipment in certain child-care facilities.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX SB1044

Relating to criminal offenses for the creation or distribution of certain misleading images and videos; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.