Texas House Bill HB1061

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 12/20/22

Caption

Relating to a notification requirement concerning the availability of nurses on the campus of a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1061 would amend the Texas Education Code to include a specific requirement for parental notification about school nurses. This would create a uniform standard across public educational institutions, promoting transparency regarding health services. Schools would be required to make a good faith effort to provide this information in bilingual formats for non-English speaking parents, thus aiming to improve access to healthcare information for a diverse student population. The bill would come into effect for the 2023-2024 school year, making it imperative for schools to prepare their communication strategies accordingly.

Summary

House Bill 1061 seeks to establish a notification requirement for public schools, including open-enrollment charter schools, regarding the availability of nurses on campus. The bill mandates that schools provide written notice to parents or guardians about the nurse’s schedule and availability within the first 30 instructional days of the school year, and any subsequent changes. This measure aims to enhance communication between schools and families, ensuring that parents are informed about health resources available to their children during school hours.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1061 has been largely supportive, as it addresses crucial health and communication needs in educational settings. Many stakeholders, including parents and educators, believe that having clear information about nurse availability can significantly benefit student wellbeing. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the administrative burden it may place on schools, particularly smaller institutions that may struggle to meet the notification requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's potential impact on school staffing and resources. Critics argue that the requirement may lead to excess bureaucracy and distraction from other pressing educational priorities. Moreover, there are concerns about how schools will manage notification processes, particularly in ensuring that all communications are accessible and adequately timed. Discussions surrounding the bill highlight a broader conversation about the balance between ensuring student health and managing school operational challenges.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 25. Admission, Transfer, And Attendance
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 301. Nurses
  • Section: New Section