Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5257

Filed

3/14/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to mental health first aid training for certain school district volunteers.

Impact

The bill modifies specific sections of the Education Code and Health and Safety Code, which require school districts to ensure that their volunteers undertake this training by September 1, 2026. Funding for this training will be supported through state appropriations, facilitating districts to cover costs associated with training fees, travel, and associated compensations. The overall objective is to create a safer school environment by equipping individuals in schools with essential skills to respond to mental health issues.

Summary

House Bill 5257 aims to enhance the mental health support provided to students by mandating mental health first aid training for school district volunteers who regularly interact with students. Under this legislation, each volunteer must complete an accredited program that focuses on recognizing and supporting children who may experience mental health or substance use problems that could threaten school safety. This initiative represents a proactive approach to ensure that adults responsible for children's well-being are adequately prepared to handle mental health issues effectively.

Contention

While the intent of HB 5257 is widely regarded as positive due to its focus on student safety and mental health awareness, some concerns may arise regarding the implementation and funding adequacy for the training programs. Opponents could argue about the logistical challenges in requiring all volunteers to complete this training, particularly in districts with limited resources. Furthermore, there may be debates over the adequacy of the training content itself and its effectiveness in real-world situations, considering the various complexities involved in mental health issues.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
- Section: 904

Health And Safety Code

Chapter 1001. Department Of State Health Services
- Section: New Section

Latest HB5257 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5096

Relating to mental health first aid training for certain school district employees and volunteers.

TX HB2059

Relating to mental health first aid training provided by local mental health authorities and local behavioral health authorities.

TX HB13

Relating to training, preparedness, and funding for school safety and emergencies in public schools.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB3

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.

TX HB2233

Relating to required mental health awareness training for first responders.

TX SB763

Relating to allowing public schools to employ or accept as volunteers chaplains.

TX HB3614

Relating to allowing public schools to employ or accept as volunteers chaplains.

TX SB2242

Relating to a policy adopted by school districts allowing parent volunteers on school district campuses.

TX HB2615

Relating to the operation by a school district of a foundation and trade diploma program to provide eligible high school students with educational training under a plan for the issuance of a high school diploma and the application of certain student-based allotments under the public school finance system.