Texas House Bill HB1284

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the offense of making or causing a false alarm or report involving a public or private institution of higher education.

Impact

The bill proposes that each institution of higher education must notify all enrolled students about the penalties for making false alarms or reports. This is aimed primarily at reducing instances of false alarms in educational contexts by ensuring that students are informed about the legal risks. The law distinguishes between various types of false reports – those affecting higher education institutions versus those involving primary or secondary schools, public utilities, or services which would incur harsher penalties classified as state jail felonies rather than simple Class A misdemeanors.

Summary

House Bill 1284 focuses on the offense of making or causing false alarms or reports related to public or private institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill specifically aims to enhance the awareness of penalties associated with such offenses by mandating that higher education institutions notify incoming students about the legal ramifications under Section 42.06 of the Penal Code. This legislation highlights the serious nature of false alarms, particularly in educational settings where panic or disruption can have severe consequences.

Contention

Discussions around HB 1284 may touch on concerns about freedom of speech and expression in educational environments, as well as the challenges institutions might face in effectively communicating these penalties to students. Critics may argue that such regulations could foster an atmosphere of fear regarding reporting suspicious activities, while supporters believe it is crucial to prevent the misuse of emergency systems. The expiration clauses in the bill, which limit certain requirements to specific dates, may also lead to debates about the bill's effectiveness and long-term applicability.