TX
Texas House Bill HB195

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB195

Filed
11/14/22  
Out of House Committee
4/12/23  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to provisions and plans by public schools to ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities or impairments during a mandatory school drill or a disaster or emergency situation.

Impact

The bill amends existing provisions within the Education Code by requiring school districts to assess the needs of students with disabilities concerning their safety during emergency protocols. By enforcing such requirements, the bill aims to create a more inclusive environment for students with special needs, ensuring they are not overlooked during critical safety drills. The bill further stipulates that accommodations must be tailored based on each individual student's needs and that their educational teams are responsible for identifying these accommodations.

Summary

House Bill 195 is focused on ensuring the safety of individuals with disabilities or impairments during mandatory school drills and emergency situations within public schools. The bill mandates that schools must include specific accommodations for students with disabilities in their emergency planning processes. This includes integrating considerations for individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans, aiming to ensure that all students can participate safely in mandatory drills without facing additional risks due to their impairments.

Sentiment

Generally, the sentiment towards HB195 has been positive, particularly among advocates for individuals with disabilities. The bill has garnered support from both educational professionals and disability rights groups who see it as a necessary step toward enhancing the safety and inclusion of vulnerable student populations. Moreover, the strong majority voting in favor of the bill reflects broad legislative support, indicating a recognition of the importance of addressing the unique needs of students with disabilities in emergency situations.

Contention

While the bill has received significant support, there are some concerns about its implementation, particularly regarding resources and training for school staff to address these new requirements adequately. Some critics argue that without adequate funding and support, the bill's intent might not translate effectively into practice. The challenge lies in ensuring that schools have the means to develop and implement effective individualized plans that consider the diverse needs of students with disabilities during emergencies.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 12. Charters
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 29. Educational Programs
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
    • Section: 1083
    • Section: 1083
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 1083

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB57

Relating to provisions and plans by public schools to ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities or impairments during a mandatory school drill or a disaster or emergency situation.

TX A1174

Requires certain documentation of needs of students with disabilities during school security drills and emergency situations and in school security plans; requires staff training on needs of students with disabilities in emergency planning.

TX S2057

Requires certain documentation of needs of students with disabilities during school security drills and emergency situations and in school security plans; requires staff training on needs of students with disabilities in emergency planning.

TX SB752

Relating to measures to ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities during an emergency situation at public postsecondary institutions.

TX SB168

Relating to emergency school drills and exercises conducted by public schools.

TX HB1016

Relating to emergency school drills and exercises conducted by public schools.

TX HB5275

Relating to measures to ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities during an emergency situation at public postsecondary institutions.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB3928

Relating to dyslexia evaluations and services for public school students, the provision of services for students with dyslexia and related disorders, and certain parental notice regarding the rights of parents of public school students with disabilities.

TX HB694

Public Schools - Individuals With Disabilities - Accessibility and Emergency Planning

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