Relating to unauthorized persons at public or private institutions of higher education in this state and to trespass, damage, or defacement occurring on the grounds of those institutions; amending provisions subject to a criminal penalty and creating offenses.
Impact
The proposed changes in HB 2629 create new offenses related to trespassing and damage at educational institutions, enabling law enforcement to impose fines for violations. Specifically, it stipulates that trespassing can be categorized as a misdemeanor that could result in fines of up to $200. The law grants educational institutions more authority to refuse entry and eject individuals deemed undesirable, thereby enhancing their control over campus security measures.
Summary
House Bill 2629 addresses unauthorized individuals on the premises of public and private institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill aims to enhance the security of these institutions by establishing clear regulations regarding trespassing and damage to property, which includes buildings and landscape features. It modifies existing sections of the Education Code to emphasize that it is unlawful for anyone to enter these properties without legitimate business, thereby reinforcing the institutions' rights to maintain a safe environment.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 2629 appears to be supportive among lawmakers emphasizing safety and order in higher education settings. Proponents argue that the bill represents a necessary step towards protecting students and staff from potential threats posed by unauthorized individuals. There is a general consensus that maintaining a secure educational environment is paramount, although some may express concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications for individual rights.
Contention
Notable points of contention mainly revolve around the interpretation of who qualifies as an 'unauthorized individual' and how strictly institutions might enforce these new provisions. Critics might argue that aggressive enforcement could infringe on the rights of students and other public individuals, while advocates stress the importance of prioritizing campus security. The balance between protecting property and preserving civil liberties represents an ongoing debate, reflecting broader concerns in society about personal freedoms versus communal safety.
Relating to studies or surveys on children's sexual behavior conducted at or by a public primary or secondary school or by a public or private institution of higher education or another person; creating criminal offenses; imposing civil penalties.
Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.
Relating to increasing the criminal penalty for certain offenses committed on or near the premises of a day-care center, school, or postsecondary educational institution.
Relating to the purpose of public institutions of higher education and a prohibition on compelling students enrolled at those institutions to adopt certain beliefs.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.