The Texas Legislature just wrapped up its 89th session by passing more than 800 new laws. The new laws impact everyday life, especially the classroom. Whether it’s what’s on the walls, what books are on the library shelf, or what’s in the students’ hands, the new education laws have sparked huge debate. Some new education laws took effect right away, while most kick in on September 1. Here’s a quick tour of some of the most notable new Texas education laws.
The Ten Commandments (Senate Bill 10). This law mandates the visible display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms under certain circumstances. Critics of this law challenge that it does not maintain the appropriate separation between church and state. The constitutionality of this law is already being challenged in court.
Student Cell Phone Ban (House Bill 1481). Much to the dismay of Texas teenagers, this law requires school boards to put policies in place that prohibit the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices during school hours.
School Voucher Programs (Senate Bill 2). This law allows Texas parents to pay for their children’s private school tuition with public tax dollars. Each child could receive up to $10,000 per year and students with disabilities could receive more. Wealthy, middle-income, and low-income families are all able to receive the voucher. Opponents of this law argue it will undermine the effectiveness of public schools.
Ban on Public School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies (Senate Bill 12). Senate Bill 12 is designed to prohibit school districts from factoring race, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation into hiring decisions. It also prohibits public schools from offering gender identity or sexual orientation student clubs.
Book Bans in Public School Libraries (Senate Bill 13). This new law allows local school boards to exercise more control over the books that students can access from public school libraries. Opponents of this law fear it will lead to increased censorship.
School District & Law Enforcement Crisis Response Policies (House Bill 33). This new law results from the Uvalde school shooting tragedy and is known as the Uvalde Strong Act (it was sponsored by a state representative that was the mayor of Uvalde at the time of the shooting). The law requires local law enforcement and school districts to meeting annually to establish, assess, and revise emergency operation plans.
This article appears in The 35th Annual Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival.