Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4093

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

Caption

Relating to the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers.

Impact

If passed, HB 4093 would have a significant impact on the Texas Education Code. The addition of a behavior specialist role could improve resources available for students with behavioral needs and support teachers in managing classroom dynamics. This could potentially lead to better educational experiences for students, particularly those facing challenges that necessitate specialized behavioral strategies. However, the bill also sets specific limitations on the specialists' roles, explicitly prohibiting them from conducting student evaluations, which distinguishes their function from clinical roles within education.

Summary

House Bill 4093 proposes new regulations concerning the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers in Texas. The bill mandates that each service center must employ a licensed behavior analyst who can provide essential support and resources to local school districts. The aim is to ensure students and their families receive the necessary assistance, particularly in enhancing educational outcomes and addressing behavioral challenges. The proposed specialist will focus on various supportive functions such as teacher training, classroom management, and personalized education programs, although they will not conduct formal evaluations or assessments of students.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4093 appears generally positive, especially among educational stakeholders who advocate for enhanced support systems within schools. Supporters argue that the employment of behavior specialists can lead to more effective responses to student needs and foster a better learning environment. However, there could also be concerns regarding the implementation of such roles and the availability of qualified professionals, which may influence opinions among school districts and educators.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its potential benefits, some may contend that mandating the employment of behavior specialists at the state level could pose challenges, such as budgetary constraints for regional service centers. Additionally, the delineation of responsibilities for these specialists might lead to debates about the adequacy of training and resources provided to ensure their effectiveness. Overall, the discussion around HB 4093 raises important questions about funding, resource allocation, and strategic planning within the state's educational framework.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 8. Regional Education Service Centers
    • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 506. Behavior Analysts
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB1797

Identical Relating to the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1797

Relating to the employment of a behavior specialist by regional education service centers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.