Texas House Bill HB2219

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Caption

Relating to a prohibition placed on an open-enrollment charter school against the employment of a person determined under certain circumstances to have engaged in misconduct that presents a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of a student or minor.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2219 would significantly impact the hiring practices of open-enrollment charter schools across Texas. By mandating that charter schools refrain from employing individuals with specific past misconduct, the law aims to foster a safer educational environment. This change will likely encourage charter schools to carry out thorough background checks and regulatory compliance, further prioritizing student welfare. Existing contracts for employment entered into before the bill's effective date would remain governed by the former legislation, which suggests a transition period to adapt to the new standards.

Summary

House Bill 2219 aims to enhance the safety of students in open-enrollment charter schools by instituting strict employment prohibitions based on past misconduct by potential hires. This legislation is designed to ensure that individuals who have engaged in behaviors that pose a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of students cannot be employed in positions that place them in direct contact with minors. Specifically, the bill outlines various forms of misconduct, including sexual offenses, abuse, drug-related offenses, and other serious criminal activities, which would lead to a disqualification from employment within these educational institutions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2219 leans positively among advocates for student safety and regulation in educational settings. Proponents argue that this bill is essential for protecting students from potential harm posed by those who have previously engaged in misconduct. However, skeptics may raise concerns regarding the fairness of employment opportunities affected by the law and whether it could lead to unintentional exclusion of capable educators who may have had past issues that don't present a continuing risk to students.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the definitions of misconduct and the determinations made by the State Board for Educator Certification in enforcing these prohibitions. Opponents might argue regarding the scope of misconduct deemed disqualifying, particularly how past actions are assessed and what constitutes a risk to student safety. The bill reflects an ongoing concern about accountability and establishing a balance between ensuring student safety and allowing individuals to move past their previous mistakes.