Texas House Bill HB2758

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/26/11
• Voted on by House: 5/4/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/19/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/4/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/19/11
• Enrolled: 5/25/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to mandatory emergency alert systems at institutions of higher education.

Impact

The new legislation will likely impact the way colleges and universities manage their emergency response protocols. Each institution is required to collect contact information from students and staff members upon initial enrollment or employment, which will be used specifically for emergency alerts. This legal requirement is aimed at fostering a culture of safety and preparedness within higher education institutions by ensuring that everyone can be swiftly informed in emergency situations.

Summary

House Bill 2758 mandates that all institutions of higher education in Texas implement a mandatory emergency alert system. This system is intended to provide timely notifications about emergencies affecting the institution's students and staff, ensuring that both groups can receive crucial information via email or phone notifications. The bill seeks to enhance campus security by ensuring that institutions have a reliable method of communication in emergencies.

Contention

While the bill is generally aimed at improving safety, there may be concerns regarding the collection and management of personal contact information. Critics might argue that mandating such systems could lead to issues of privacy and consent, particularly regarding the use of individuals' personal data. Institutions are required to maintain the confidentiality of this information, but the necessity for annual renewal of participation could raise questions about the effectiveness of sustained engagement in such alert systems.