Texas House Bill HB349

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Filed: 11/29/10
• Introduced: 11/29/10
• Refer: 2/15/11

Caption

Relating to requiring a school district to adopt a policy and collect data regarding restraints administered and citations issued by a school district peace officer.

Impact

The implementation of HB 349 may lead to significant changes in how school districts manage interactions between students and peace officers. The bill requires districts to develop comprehensive policies that detail complaint processes, public education efforts concerning these policies, and corrective measures for any violations of established protocols. Moreover, the requirement for consistent data reporting will enable better analysis of the circumstances surrounding student citations and restraints, potentially leading to more informed policy decisions at the district and state levels.

Summary

House Bill 349 mandates that school districts establish a policy regarding the administration of restraints and the issuance of citations by school district peace officers. This legislation aims to enhance oversight and accountability by requiring districts to document incidents involving restraints and citations, collecting data such as student demographics, nature of offenses, and actions taken during incidents. The data collected will help to ensure transparency and promote a culture of safety within schools.

Sentiment

Opinions on HB 349 are likely to diverge, with proponents viewing it as a necessary step to improve student safety and provide a transparent way to handle discipline issues in schools. Supporters might argue that such measures could address potential biases in the treatment of students, particularly among marginalized groups. On the other hand, some may express concerns regarding the implications for school policing, fearing that increased regulation could hinder the ability of peace officers to appropriately handle disciplinary situations.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 349 may revolve around the balance between student rights and the role of law enforcement within educational institutions. Critics may argue that the provisions could complicate the enforcement of necessary disciplinary actions, while supporters may contend that the transparency requirements will foster a better understanding of how peace officers engage with students. As this bill progresses, discussions will likely center on the effectiveness of such measures in promoting both safety and fairness in the treatment of students.