Texas Senate Bill SB1925

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25

Caption

Relating to truancy.

Impact

The amendments proposed in SB1925 aim to strengthen the enforcement of compulsory school attendance laws and provide a more structured approach for addressing truancy. By defining the powers of attendance officers, the bill potentially broadens the scope of their authority, enabling them to take measures such as home visits, maintaining attendance records, and serving court-ordered processes. Furthermore, the bill mandates that districts offer counseling and other support services for students whose truancy is linked to certain circumstances like pregnancy, homelessness, or family obligations, thus recognizing the broader factors at play in student attendance issues.

Summary

Senate Bill 1925 relates to truancy in the state of Texas, amending various sections of the Education Code to outline the powers and responsibilities of attendance officers and procedures associated with truancy enforcement. The bill provides specific guidance on how school districts must address instances of truancy, including enacting truancy prevention measures designed to assist students before they engage in conduct that leads to truancy. In particular, it emphasizes the importance of parental notification when a student has excessive unexcused absences, aiming to involve parents more directly in the attendance and wellbeing of their children.

Contention

While the bill attempts to tighten truancy regulations and enhance compliance measures, there may be points of contention regarding the enforcement aspects, particularly related to the powers given to attendance officers. Critics may argue that augmenting the authority of these officers could lead to unintended consequences or put undue pressure on families. Moreover, the elimination of jury trials in truancy court proceedings could raise concerns regarding the rights of students and their families, as due process in such cases becomes a significant issue that must be continuously addressed.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 25. Admission, Transfer, And Attendance
  • Section: 091
  • Section: 0915
  • Section: 095
  • Section: New Section

Family Code

• Chapter 65. Truancy Court Proceedings
  • Section: New Section