TX
Texas House Bill HB1704

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1704

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

Caption

Relating to a parent's right to be notified by a school district concerning acts of self-harm by the parent's child.

Impact

Starting from the 2025-2026 school year, this bill mandates that an employee of a school district must inform a district administrator if they observe a student engaging in any defined acts of self-harm. A failure to comply could result in disciplinary measures against the school employee, including suspension or termination. Proponents argue that timely notifications are critical for addressing mental health issues effectively and ensuring a supportive environment for vulnerable students.

Summary

House Bill 1704 establishes a requirement for school districts in Texas to notify parents immediately if their child engages in or expresses any form of self-harm. The term 'self-harm' is broadly defined, encompassing actions such as attempted suicide, self-mutilation, high-risk sexual behavior, and substance abuse. This legislation seeks to enhance the communication between educational institutions and parents regarding significant behavioral concerns that may affect the child's well-being.

Conclusion

If implemented, HB 1704 will significantly change the dynamics between schools and families regarding mental health issues. The focus on immediate parental notification sharpens accountability for school districts but may also lead to intense scrutiny of the emotional experiences of students who may struggle with self-harm. The ongoing dialogue around this legislation reflects broader societal challenges concerning mental health support for youth.

Contention

While supporters commend the bill for its focus on improving parental engagement in students' mental health, opponents have raised concerns about privacy and the potential stigmatization of students. They argue that mandatory reporting could lead to exaggerated reactions from parents, potentially complicating a child’s treatment for mental health issues. This raises questions about the balance between parental rights and the protection of children's welfare in sensitive situations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 26. Parental Rights And Responsibilities
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB890

Relating to parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials.

TX SB393

Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for public school students; authorizing a civil remedy.

TX SB77

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials.

TX SB13

Relating to a school district's library materials and catalog, the creation of local school library advisory councils, and parental rights regarding public school library catalogs and access by the parent's child to library materials.

TX SB34

Relating to a school district's library materials and catalog, the creation of local school library advisory councils, and parental rights regarding public school library catalogs and access by the parent's child to library materials.

TX SB8

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB5261

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB26

Relating to parental consent for certain activities engaged in by a school district employee or contractor with respect to the parents child.

TX HB1155

Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for certain public school students.

TX HB120

Relating to parental consent for certain activities engaged in by a school district employee or contractor with respect to the parent's child.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.