Texas House Bill HB3201

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/2/23

Caption

Relating to access to the registry of persons who are not eligible for employment in public schools.

Impact

Should HB 3201 be enacted, it will bring significant changes to how employment eligibility is monitored across educational institutions in Texas. By providing broader access to the registry, the bill is intended to facilitate the sharing of vital information about individuals who may pose a risk to children. This could lead to increased transparency and accountability among educational institutions regarding the personnel they hire, thereby enhancing the overall safety of children attending these facilities.

Summary

House Bill 3201, introduced by Representative Noble, seeks to amend the Education Code to enhance access to a registry that identifies individuals who are ineligible for employment in public schools. The proposed legislation aims to expand the list of entities allowed access to this registry, which currently serves primarily public schools, to include private schools, child-care facilities, family homes registered under Human Resources Code, and nonprofit teacher organizations participating in tutoring programs. This move is seen as a measure to ensure a wider safety net for children involved in educational programs both in public and private settings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3201 appears to be generally positive among proponents who advocate for increased child safety measures within educational settings. Supporters argue that expanding access to the registry is a necessary step in protecting children from potentially harmful individuals. However, there may also be concerns from stakeholders regarding privacy implications and the operational burden on private and nonprofit entities that now have to navigate the complexities of the registry access and utilization.

Contention

Notably, discussions around HB 3201 may highlight points of contention regarding the balance between necessary safety measures and the privacy rights of individuals. While proponents may argue that the expansion of the registry access is vital for safeguarding children, opponents could raise concerns about the potential for misuse of personal data or creating barriers for qualified personnel in the education sector. The bill therefore sits at the intersection of child protection and individual rights, making it a topic likely to generate robust debate as it progresses through the legislative process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
  • Section: New Section