Texas House Bill HB2738

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to employing, terminating, and reporting the misconduct of public school personnel and related entity personnel, including creating a registry of persons ineligible for hire; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

If enacted, HB2738 will amend several sections of the Texas Education Code. It mandates that school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and other educational institutions promptly report any instances of misconduct or illegal acts committed by their employees. The bill also creates a structured process for the commissioner of education to review misconduct allegations and determine eligibility for employment, ensuring that those who pose a potential risk to students cannot gain access to educational settings.

Summary

House Bill 2738 addresses the employment practices of public school personnel and those affiliated with related entities within the state. The bill enforces stricter regulations regarding the hiring and termination processes, particularly in instances of misconduct. A significant aspect of the bill is the establishment of a registry for individuals ineligible for hire based on specific misconduct criteria, enhancing the school systems' ability to maintain safe educational environments.

Conclusion

In summary, HB2738 seeks to safeguard students by ensuring that public school employees who engage in wrongdoing are carefully monitored and held accountable. The establishment of a misconduct registry is a proactive step towards preventing potential threats within the education system, fostering a more secure learning environment for students across Texas.

Contention

Notably, the bill incorporates provisions that outline the investigative protocols following allegations of misconduct, offering protections for whistleblowers who report such incidents. However, there may be concerns about the stringent reporting requirements and due process for affected employees. Critics might argue that the bill could lead to unwarranted stigma against individuals accused of misconduct, especially considering the serious implications of being placed on the ineligible registry without a thorough and fair review.