Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1760

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

Caption

Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

Should it be enacted, SB1760 could significantly reshape how schools deal with violent incidents. The bill stipulates that students engaging in violent conduct would be reviewed under this program, which may lead to mandatory referrals for counseling or other interventions. This could empower educational institutions to take preemptive actions and ensure that the rights and safety of all students are kept at the forefront. However, it also raises questions about the implementation logistics and the sufficiency of resources for the proposed measures, which may vary by district.

Summary

SB1760 addresses classroom safety within public schools by proposing the establishment of a review and referral program specifically aimed at students who have exhibited violent criminal conduct. The bill aims to create a structured approach to handle cases of violence among students, potentially involving evaluations and interventions designed to prevent future incidents. This initiative is rooted in the growing concern over student safety in schools, particularly in light of recent events highlighting the need for effective measures to manage violence in educational environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1760 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill is a much-needed step to safeguard students and educators by addressing the root causes of violent behavior and promoting rehabilitation. On the other hand, critics express concerns over the potential stigmatization of students involved in the system and worry about how such measures might be perceived by parents and the community. There are fears that the bill could unintentionally lead to over-policing within schools instead of fostering an environment of understanding and support.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the ethical implications of categorizing students based on their behavior and the adequacy of school resources to support such a program. Opponents are particularly wary of the bill’s capacity to effectively address violent behavior without infringing on students' rights or inadvertently criminalizing them. The discussions surrounding SB1760 emphasize the delicate balance between maintaining a safe educational environment and ensuring that students receive the necessary support and treatment they need to change their behaviors.

Companion Bills

TX HB34

Identical Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

Previously Filed As

TX HB942

Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB475

Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1010

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

TX HB4833

Relating to the removal of a public school student from the classroom for engaging in certain conduct and requiring a drug prevention and intervention program.

TX SB1137

Relating to group home consultant referrals; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1872

Relating to the expulsion of a public school student for engaging in conduct that constitutes certain offenses.

TX HB3657

Relating to the removal of a public school student from the classroom for engaging in certain conduct against a school district employee.

TX HB1947

Relating to civil and criminal liability for engaging in certain conduct involving a critical infrastructure facility; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB4352

Relating to the removal of a public school student from the classroom for engaging in conduct involving the possession of certain prohibited substances.

TX HB4653

Relating to the discipline of public school students who engage in certain conduct.

Similar Bills

IA SF2044

A bill for an act relating to the responsibilities of school districts and charter schools related to the discipline of students who cause violent or nonviolent disruptions.(See SF 2428.)

TX HB942

Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB475

Relating to a public school classroom safety review and referral program for students who engage in violent criminal conduct; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB222

Relating to the permissible uses of the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program.

IA HF2435

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to when children may enroll in kindergarten; when students enrolled in kindergarten in school districts, charter schools, or innovation zone schools may be promoted to first grade; and the responsibilities of school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools related to the discipline of students who cause violent or nonviolent disruptions.

FL S1170

Education

IA SF2428

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the duties of the department of education; the discipline of students enrolled in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools who cause violent or nonviolent disruptions; the responsibilities and powers of the department of education, school district teachers, and other educational staff related to students who have individualized education programs or plans under section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act; school district professional development plans; and authorizing teachers to request a meeting of a student's individualized education program team. (Formerly SF 2044.) Effective date: 07/01/2026

HI SB1391

Relating To Education.