Texas House Bill HB2328

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the training requirements for and the expiration of a school marshal license issued or renewed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

Impact

The adjustments brought about by HB2328 will have a significant impact on the licensing framework for school marshals in Texas. By incorporating online training options, the law aims to streamline the certification process while ensuring that certification remains robust. This approach may foster a more prepared and competent group of school marshals, directly influencing safety and security measures within educational institutions. Additionally, the bill mandates that those seeking to renew their licenses must demonstrate knowledge through an examination and physical proficiency with their firearms, enhancing accountability among school marshals.

Summary

House Bill 2328 proposes amendments to the regulations surrounding the licensing and training of school marshals in Texas. The bill aims to update the training requirements for school marshals by allowing up to 40 hours of instruction via approved online courses. This provision is expected to facilitate greater accessibility and flexibility in training, potentially making it easier for individuals to obtain and maintain their school marshal licenses. Furthermore, the new guidelines set forth in the bill outline a structured process for license renewal, linking competency and psychological fitness directly to the continued authorization to serve as a school marshal.

Contention

While the bill generally supports enhanced training for school marshals, discussions around it may reveal contention regarding the mandated online training, with some questioning the effectiveness of virtual instruction compared to traditional classroom experiences. There is also potential debate over the psychological evaluation requirements, with stakeholders concerned about privacy and the implications of such evaluations. Furthermore, as school safety continues to be a prominent topic, the bill may attract further scrutiny and calls for additional measures to ensure comprehensive safety protocols that extend beyond the scope of marshal training.