Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1061

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

Caption

Relating to a notification requirement concerning the availability of nurses on the campus of a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1061 would amend the Texas Education Code to include a specific requirement for parental notification about school nurses. This would create a uniform standard across public educational institutions, promoting transparency regarding health services. Schools would be required to make a good faith effort to provide this information in bilingual formats for non-English speaking parents, thus aiming to improve access to healthcare information for a diverse student population. The bill would come into effect for the 2023-2024 school year, making it imperative for schools to prepare their communication strategies accordingly.

Summary

House Bill 1061 seeks to establish a notification requirement for public schools, including open-enrollment charter schools, regarding the availability of nurses on campus. The bill mandates that schools provide written notice to parents or guardians about the nurse’s schedule and availability within the first 30 instructional days of the school year, and any subsequent changes. This measure aims to enhance communication between schools and families, ensuring that parents are informed about health resources available to their children during school hours.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1061 has been largely supportive, as it addresses crucial health and communication needs in educational settings. Many stakeholders, including parents and educators, believe that having clear information about nurse availability can significantly benefit student wellbeing. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the administrative burden it may place on schools, particularly smaller institutions that may struggle to meet the notification requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's potential impact on school staffing and resources. Critics argue that the requirement may lead to excess bureaucracy and distraction from other pressing educational priorities. Moreover, there are concerns about how schools will manage notification processes, particularly in ensuring that all communications are accessible and adequately timed. Discussions surrounding the bill highlight a broader conversation about the balance between ensuring student health and managing school operational challenges.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 25. Admission, Transfer, And Attendance
    • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 301. Nurses
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1370

Relating to a notification requirement concerning the availability of nurses on the campus of a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school.

TX SB78

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse, school counselor, or librarian assigned to the school during all instructional hours.

TX SB418

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school campus or open-enrollment charter school does not have a nurse assigned to the campus during all instructional hours.

TX SB69

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school campus or open-enrollment charter school does not have a nurse assigned to the campus during all instructional hours.

TX HB1938

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school campus or open-enrollment charter school does not have a nurse assigned to the campus during all instructional hours.

TX SB673

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school campus or open-enrollment charter school does not have a nurse assigned to the campus during all instructional hours.

TX HB1847

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse, school counselor, or librarian assigned to the school during all instructional hours.

TX HB1281

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.

TX HB692

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.

TX HB1854

Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.