Texas House Bill HB2736

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 2/23/23

Caption

Relating to requirements regarding certain student resources provided to public and private school students by a public or private primary or secondary school, institution of higher education, state agency, or public library.

Impact

The legislation is expected to impact the way schools and educational institutions procure and provide resources to students. Providers of these resources will be required to develop and adopt safety policies and technology protections, ensuring they do not allow harmful content. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in termination of contracts and withholding of payments, thereby holding providers accountable for the content they deliver to students. This could ultimately lead to stricter oversight of educational materials and a more rigorous vetting process.

Summary

House Bill 2736 aims to ensure the safety and appropriateness of student resources provided by various educational institutions, including both public and private schools, universities, and libraries. The bill mandates that any resources offered must be verified for compliance with specific standards aimed at restricting access to inappropriate content, such as obscenity, child pornography, and sexual exploitation. By implementing these requirements, the bill seeks to enhance the protective measures around educational materials accessed by students from prekindergarten through 12th grade.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2736 appears to lean positively among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards safeguarding children from potential harm in the digital age. Supporters argue that the bill is crucial for ensuring educational content is safe and appropriate for young audiences. Yet, there may be concerns from various stakeholders about the practicality of enforcing these compliance measures and the potential implications for resource availability and freedom in educational contexts.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the enforceability of the verification processes and the balance between the need for safety and access to diverse educational resources. Critics may argue that these requirements could lead to overreaching censorship or limit students' access to a broader range of materials necessary for a comprehensive education. Additionally, discussions may focus on the feasibility and resource burden placed on smaller educational institutions and providers who must comply with these new standards.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 38. Health And Safety
  • Section: New Section