Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4480

Caption

Relating to a study on the use of art therapy in public schools and on art therapy in higher education.

Impact

The legislation articulates the necessity for a structured approach to mental health issues in schools, thereby supporting a broader discourse on the role of art in education. By proposing the creation of a task force comprising mental health professionals, educators, and parents, HB4480 emphasizes community involvement in mental health strategies. The task force is responsible for researching the benefits of art therapy and delivering a comprehensive report that could guide future legislative decisions relating to mental health in educational institutions.

Summary

House Bill 4480 focuses on the incorporation of art therapy within public schools and higher education institutions in Texas. The bill aims to enhance the mental health of students by establishing a task force to study the efficacy and feasibility of art therapy as a therapeutic intervention. This bill mandates a detailed analysis of how art therapy can improve the mental well-being of school-aged children, particularly those with disabilities, thereby highlighting the importance of creative expression in educational settings.

Contention

While the bill itself does not appear to spark significant immediate controversy, the implications for state policy regarding mental health services in schools could raise questions among stakeholders. There may be varying opinions about the allocation of state resources towards art therapy compared to other mental health services, and the potential adoption of new programs may face scrutiny regarding their effectiveness and impact on school curricula. Critics may express concerns about whether art therapy could be adequately integrated into the existing educational system or if it might divert attention from traditional educational goals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB4288

Relating to a study on the use of alternative therapies for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB667

Relating to the licensing and regulation of music therapists; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.

TX HB4561

Relating to the establishment of the Alternative Mental Health Therapy Research Consortium and to certain plans, programs, and studies related to the provision of those alternative mental health therapies.

TX SB2335

Relating to the accreditation of public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1167

Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.

TX HB2615

Relating to the operation by a school district of a foundation and trade diploma program to provide eligible high school students with educational training under a plan for the issuance of a high school diploma and the application of certain student-based allotments under the public school finance system.

TX SB47

Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.

TX HB5033

Relating to requiring public schools and public institutions of higher education to report data regarding certain arrests made on school or institution property.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.