Texas House Bill HB3792

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/7/23

Caption

Relating to requiring a public school to certify compliance with the requirements to discharge or refuse to employ certain ineligible persons and to report certain educator misconduct.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3792 is intended to enhance the overall safety and integrity of educational environments across Texas. By requiring mandatory certification of compliance, the bill seeks to prevent individuals with a record of misconduct from being hired or retained in positions at public schools. This requirement sets a clear expectation and framework for schools, demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of students and adherence to ethical hiring practices. It also signifies a proactive approach in addressing educator misconduct and protecting students from potential harm.

Summary

House Bill 3792 mandates that public schools in Texas must certify compliance with specific requirements related to the discharge or refusal to employ individuals deemed ineligible for employment in educational settings. The bill aims to strengthen accountability measures for school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to ensure that they are not employing or retaining individuals who have engaged in misconduct. Each year, superintendents or chief operating officers of these institutions are required to report their compliance to the Texas Education Commissioner.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3792 appears to be largely supportive among legislators and public advocates who prioritize student safety and accountability within educational institutions. There is a recognition that holding schools accountable for their hiring practices can lead to more transparent and ethical educational environments. However, potential concerns may arise regarding the feasibility of compliance reporting and the administrative burden it places on school districts, particularly smaller ones with limited resources.

Contention

While HB 3792 is primarily viewed positively, some points of contention may include the potential difficulties schools might face in meeting the certification requirements. Critics may question whether the bill places reasonable expectations on school districts, especially regarding their capacity to monitor and report educator employment effectively. Furthermore, discussions could arise about how the bill will be enforced and what consequences schools might face for non-compliance, raising implications for governance and oversight in public education.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

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