SB 112 would expand and clarify parental rights in Texas public education. It expressly gives parents access to a broad set of school records concerning their child, including attendance, grades, discipline, counseling and psychological records, health and immunization information, behavioral reports, and records related to learning interventions. The bill also requires school district employees to obtain written parental consent before conducting a psychological examination, test, or treatment; administering a student well-being questionnaire, health screening form, or survey; or making or authorizing a videotape or audio recording of a child.
The bill includes an exception to the consent requirement when the examination, test, or treatment is required under Section 38.004 of the Education Code or under state or federal special education law. It would take effect immediately if approved by a two-thirds vote in each chamber; otherwise, it would become effective on September 1, 2025.
Impact
SB 112 would amend Sections 26.004 and 26.009 of the Texas Education Code, strengthening statutory parental access to student records and narrowing when school personnel may conduct certain assessments, screenings, surveys, or recordings without written parental consent. The practical effect would be to increase parental control over school-based information gathering and to impose additional procedural requirements on school districts and their employees, while preserving existing obligations tied to special education and other legal mandates.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests strong support for the bill in the Senate, where it passed third reading with 29 yeas and 2 nays after suspension of the three-day rule. No committee transcript is available, but the bill’s caption and text indicate it is framed as a parental-rights measure, which typically attracts support from lawmakers favoring greater family oversight in schools. The later referral in the House indicates the measure was still moving through the legislative process.
Contention
The main points of contention are likely to center on the balance between parental control and school discretion. Supporters would view the bill as ensuring transparency and consent before schools collect sensitive information or conduct psychological or wellness-related activities. Opponents may be concerned that the consent requirement could limit routine student support, screening, counseling, or data collection, and could create administrative burdens for districts. The exception for special education and legally required services appears designed to address some of those concerns, but the scope of the consent requirement remains the bill’s most notable flashpoint.
Relating to parental rights in public education, to certain public school requirements and prohibitions regarding instruction, diversity, equity, and inclusion duties, and social transitioning, and to student clubs at public schools.
Relating to parental rights in public education, to the creation of the office of inspector general at the Texas Education Agency, and to the reporting of certain misconduct and child abuse and neglect; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting certain instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity; authorizing a civil penalty.