Texas Senate Bill SB313

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the use of certain personal leave by school district teachers.

Impact

The bill mandates that school district boards of trustees incorporate this option into their policies regarding teacher leave. The specific alteration will empower teachers with the ability to choose how to allocate their paid and unpaid leave. By protecting the ability of teachers to reserve their paid leave for future use, SB313 could lead to enhanced job satisfaction and retention among educators, particularly those planning for family growth.

Summary

SB313 introduces provisions that specifically address the use of personal leave for teachers within school districts. The bill allows teachers, under certain circumstances, the option not to utilize their paid personal leave concurrently with unpaid leave that is permitted under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) due to pregnancy, birth, or adoption of a child. This change is intended to provide additional flexibility for teachers in managing their leave during significant life events.

Contention

While the bill offers potential benefits to teachers, discussions surrounding its implementation may arise regarding the fiscal implications for school districts. The requirement for districts to adjust their existing leave policies could incur administrative burdens or shift financial responsibilities. Additionally, stakeholders may express varying opinions on the potential impacts this shift may have on teacher workload or student availability during critical periods.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 21. Educators
  • Section: New Section