Texas House Bill HB305

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to student harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying.

Impact

The bill specifically impacts sections of the Education Code related to student conduct, extending the reach of anti-bullying policies beyond school grounds and events. By defining bullying to include cyberbullying that disrupts the educational process, schools are tasked with a broader responsibility to monitor and address misconduct affecting student welfare. This change also poses challenges for schools in implementing effective prevention and intervention strategies, as they must navigate incidents that often occur outside traditional school environments.

Summary

House Bill 305, also known as David's Law, aims to address the pressing issues of student harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying within Texas educational systems. The bill amends the Education Code to enhance the definitions and procedures related to bullying and cyberbullying, making explicit that such behaviors can occur both on and off school property, as well as through electronic means. This legislation seeks to establish clearer guidelines for schools to identify, report, and mitigate bullying incidents, which is crucial for ensuring the safety and mental health of students in Texas schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 305 focus on the implications of enforcing these new definitions and reporting requirements. Some educators and parents have expressed concern about the potential for increased administrative burdens on schools and the vagueness of what constitutes cyberbullying. Others argue that without stringent guidelines and training, schools may struggle to sufficiently address these issues, leading to inconsistent enforcement of the law. The bill emphasizes zero tolerance towards bullying, which could lead to severe outcomes for students found in violation, especially in cases involving threats or sharing intimate materials, raising debates about fairness and due process in disciplinary actions.