Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB36

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the membership of a public school's threat assessment and safe and supportive school team and committee and the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the public school finance system.

Impact

One of the bill's significant impacts is the formalization of the requirement for expertise in school safety-related fields within threat assessment teams. By mandating such expertise, the bill aims to improve the quality of threat assessments and the overall response to potential crises in schools. Additionally, it allows for more targeted use of financial resources allocated for school safety, focusing on securing school facilities and enhancing mental health services. This shift could potentially lead to better-prepared schools to handle emergencies and improve student wellbeing.

Summary

House Bill 36, introduced by Talarico, addresses the membership composition of public school threat assessment teams and the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the public school finance system. The bill emphasizes the appointment of individuals with expertise in various relevant fields such as counseling, behavior management, mental health, and school security. The intent is to enhance the capability of schools to effectively assess and manage threats, thereby ensuring a safer educational environment for students and staff.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 36 appears to be largely supportive among educators and safety advocates who recognize the importance of structured threat assessments and mental health expertise in schools. There is a collective agreement on the necessity of improved safety measures in response to increasing concerns about school violence. However, some opposition may arise regarding the financial implications of expanded training and resources, given that public school funding is often tightly contested.

Contention

Notable points of contention may center around how the allocated funds are managed and the extent of the bill's requirements. Critics may argue that while the intentions behind the bill are commendable, the practicality of enforcing such measures and the financial resources necessary to implement them could be challenging. The debate may also touch on the degree to which local districts can innovate their safety strategies versus adhering to state-mandated guidelines.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
    • Section: 115
  • Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
    • Section: 115

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1596

Relating to the membership of a school district's threat assessment and safe and supportive school team and committee and the school safety allotment under the public school finance system.

TX HB2010

Relating to the membership of a school district's threat assessment and safe and supportive school team and committee and the school safety allotment under the public school finance system.

TX HB3572

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the public school finance system.

TX SB1547

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the public school finance system.

TX HB2588

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB462

Relating to the armed security officers required to be present at public schools and the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB2451

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB948

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB649

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental and behavioral health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB5306

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment and the creation of a mental and behavioral health allotment under the Foundation School Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.