Texas House Bill HB70

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to prevention of discrimination and harassment in public schools.

Impact

The bill enforces specific requirements on school districts to provide training for employees regarding the prevention of discrimination and harassment. Moreover, it establishes a reporting protocol for incidents that occur within the school premises or during school-related activities. The data collected from these incidents must be reported biennially to the Texas Education Agency, enhancing accountability and safeguarding students’ rights. As a result, schools are expected to adopt a more proactive approach in addressing any instances of discrimination or harassment.

Summary

House Bill 70 is a legislative act aimed at preventing discrimination and harassment within the context of public schools in Texas. The bill specifically prohibits discrimination against students and employees based on their ethnicity, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or national origin. It mandates that school districts must take appropriate actions to eliminate such discriminatory behaviors, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all individuals associated with the educational institution. This initiative underscores the importance of inclusivity and equal treatment in public education settings.

Contention

Debate around HB70 may arise from concerns about its implementation and the perceived implications for school policies. Some stakeholders may argue that the training requirements and reporting procedures could place an additional burden on school districts, especially those with limited resources. Furthermore, discussions may surface regarding the scope of terms like 'gender identity' and 'sexual orientation,' which could lead to differing interpretations and potential challenges in enforcement. This bill, while advocating for student and employee protection against discrimination, may face opposition from groups concerned about how such measures could affect the traditional values or policies within the school environment.