TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1224

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1224

Filed
2/11/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/28/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the reporting of certain public or private school employee misconduct to local law enforcement.

Impact

The provisions of SB1224 are designed to enhance accountability within educational settings by enforcing stricter reporting standards on misconduct. This legislation aims to ensure that serious incidents involving educators are reported to law enforcement promptly, potentially reducing risks to students and enhancing public trust in educational institutions. By imposing clear penalties for non-reporting, the law intends to deter misconduct and promote a culture of transparency and responsibility among school officials.

Summary

SB1224 amends the Education Code to establish mandatory reporting requirements for misconduct involving public and private school employees to local law enforcement agencies. Specifically, it requires superintendents or directors of educational institutions to notify the appropriate police departments or sheriffs within 48 hours after having reasonable cause to believe an employee has engaged in misconduct. The bill also outlines consequences for failing to report, including administrative penalties and potential state jail felonies for deliberate concealment of incidents.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment regarding SB1224 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to protect students and hold educators accountable for their actions. They view the bill as a progressive step towards improving safety and integrity within schools. Conversely, some critics express concerns about the unintended consequences of the legislation, such as the potential for over-reporting minor infractions or engaging in a punitive culture that could discourage educators from engaging with law enforcement about sensitive issues. The debate underscores a broader discussion about balancing student safety with the realities of educator responsibilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention within discussions surrounding SB1224 relate to its implications on educator autonomy and the potential for overreach in regulatory oversight. Some stakeholders worry that the bill may lead to unnecessary legal scrutiny of educators for minor incidents, thereby creating a chilling effect on educational environments. Additionally, the definitions of misconduct within the bill and the timeline for reporting may be contested, leading to discussions on what constitutes reasonable cause and how swiftly reports must be made in practice. These concerns reflect the tension between ensuring accountability and fostering a supportive environment for both students and educators.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 21. Educators
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0062
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0062
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0062
  • Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Latest SB1224 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB2206

Identical Relating to the reporting of certain public school employee misconduct to local law enforcement.

Similar Bills

TX HB2206

Relating to the reporting of certain public school employee misconduct to local law enforcement.

TX SB1743

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general for education at the Texas Education Agency to investigate the administration of public education and required reporting on misconduct by employees of certain educational entities; creating a criminal offense; increasing an administrative penalty; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4206

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general for education at the Texas Education Agency to investigate the administration of public education and required reporting on misconduct by employees of certain educational entities; creating a criminal offense; increasing an administrative penalty; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB3617

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general for education at the Texas Education Agency to investigate the administration of public education and required reporting on misconduct by employees of certain educational entities; creating a criminal offense; increasing an administrative penalty; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB3347

Relating to person not eligible for employment in public schools and to measures to ensure publics schools do not employ those persons.

TX HB1799

Relating to employing, terminating, and reporting misconduct of public school personnel and related entity personnel, including creating a registry of persons ineligible for hire; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1890

Relating to employing, terminating, and reporting misconduct of public school personnel and related entity personnel, including creating a registry of persons ineligible for hire; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1256

Relating to employing, terminating, and reporting the misconduct of public school personnel and related entity personnel, including creating a registry of persons ineligible for hire; creating criminal offenses.