89R2171 CMO-D By: Middleton S.B. No. 2643 A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT relating to the inclusion of civics instruction in public school government curriculum requirements for high school students. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Section 28.002, Education Code, is amended by adding Subsection (h-3) to read as follows: (h-3) In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the government component of the social studies curriculum for high school students, the State Board of Education shall adopt essential knowledge and skills to develop each student's civic knowledge, including: (1) the role of governmental officials, including: (A) statewide elected officials; (B) county officials; (C) city councilors; and (D) other local governmental officials; (2) the voting process and election laws of this state; (3) the eligibility requirements to run for elected office in this state; (4) Robert's Rules of Order; and (5) the elected officials who represent the student at each level of government. SECTION 2. This Act applies beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2025.