Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1037

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to establishing a committee to develop school safety and security rules and standards for newly constructed school facilities.

Impact

If enacted, SB1037 would directly modify Section 7.061 of the Education Code, altering the requirements for school construction in Texas. The legislation mandates that the Texas Education Agency and the Texas School Safety Center collaborate to create rules that reflect the latest safety practices. By requiring new school facilities to comply with these standards, the bill aims to mitigate safety risks and improve the overall security atmosphere in schools, thereby impacting not just construction practices but also creating safer environments for students and staff.

Summary

SB1037 proposes the establishment of a committee charged with developing safety and security rules and standards specifically for newly constructed school facilities in Texas. The bill aims to enhance the safety features of these buildings by mandating compliance with the recently developed standards for any school construction initiated after January 1, 2024. This legislative move recognizes the growing concerns regarding school safety and aims to ensure that new facilities are designed with appropriate security features from their inception.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1037 appears largely positive among supporters who view it as a necessary step toward improving school safety standards. Advocates believe that implementing strict safety measures in newly built schools is an essential investment for the wellbeing of students and educators alike. However, some critics may express concerns regarding the potential additional costs associated with adhering to these new regulations, particularly for smaller school districts.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention may arise from the implications of mandated improvements to safety standards, particularly concerning budget constraints for school districts. Questions may surface regarding who would bear the financial burden of these new requirements and whether the standards established are comprehensive enough to address various safety concerns without imposing excessive costs. Additionally, there's the potential for debate over the speed with which the rules and standards should be developed and implemented.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5223

Relating to emergency response protocols and safety and security audits developed by the Texas School Safety Center and Health and Human Services Commission for day-care centers.

TX HB1726

Requires every school district to comply with enhanced safety and security standards

TX SB930

In student supports, further providing for definitions; in school safety and security, further prov iding for definitions, for School Safety and Security Committee, for school safety and security assessment providers, for School Safety and Security Grant Program, for school safety and security coordinator, for school safety and security training and for reporting and memorandum of understanding; in school security, further providing for training, for school resource officers, for school security guards and for duties of commission; in Safe2Say Program, further providing for intent, for definitions, for Safe2Say Program and for annual report; in threat assessment, further providing for definitions, for threat assessment teams and for threat assessment guidelines, training and information materials; and making editorial changes.

TX HB1212

establishing a commission to review draft rules related to minimum standards for public school approval and state academic standards developed by the department of education.

TX SB936

Relating to authorizing the Texas School Safety Center to conduct random safety and security audits of public schools; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX HB0044

School Security Personnel Standards

TX H7731

Strengthens school security measures, including the establishment of a RI school emergency response committee to develop additional recommendations for school security measures and requiring an annual school safety assessment by all school districts.

TX HB1010

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to certain student records and conduct.

TX SB229

In school safety and security, establishing the Cell Phone Lockable Bag Pilot Program.

TX HB1701

In grounds and buildings, further providing for referendum or public hearing required prior to construction or lease; providing for school facilities; establishing the Public School Facility Advisory Committee; in construction and renovation of buildings by school entities, repealing provisions relating to building condition assessments; and imposing duties on the Department of Education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.