Texas House Bill HB3754

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/4/25

Caption

Relating to a school district conference or hearing following a public school student's removal from a classroom or expulsion.

Impact

If passed, HB3754 would amend portions of the Texas Education Code, specifically Sections 37.009(a) and (f), to provide clearer guidance on how schools should conduct hearings and conferences. It mandates that schools consider the student's intent, disciplinary history, and any disabilities before making decisions on punishment. This is intended to promote fairness and due process, aligning school policies more closely with federal requirements for student rights in disciplinary matters.

Summary

House Bill 3754 focuses on the processes surrounding the removal and expulsion of students from public school classrooms in Texas. It establishes protocols for schools to follow when a student is removed, emphasizing the need for a conference that includes the student, their guardian, the teacher, and the campus behavior coordinator. The bill aims to ensure students receive notice of the reasons for their removal and are given an opportunity to respond before any disciplinary action is finalized.

Contention

Critics of HB3754 may argue that while the bill attempts to safeguard student rights, it could also impose additional bureaucratic requirements that schools may find burdensome. Additionally, the potential for varying interpretations of 'appropriate due process' might lead to inconsistencies in how discipline is administered across districts. Supporters, however, contend that the legislation is a necessary step towards ensuring that students are treated fairly and that their voices are heard during the disciplinary process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
  • Section: New Section