H.B. No. 462 aims to enhance school safety in Texas by mandating the presence of armed security officers at public schools and establishing a mental health allotment under the Foundation School Program. The bill amends Section 37.0814(b) of the Education Code to specify that security officers must include school district peace officers, school resource officers, commissioned peace officers, or canine units. Additionally, it modifies Section 48.115 to increase the annual allotment for school districts from $10 to $100 per student and from $15,000 to $100,000 per campus, contingent upon the presence of armed security personnel during school hours.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new Section 48.117, which provides an annual mental health allotment of $100,000 for school districts to support mental health services. This funding is intended to develop comprehensive mental health systems within schools, focusing on positive school climates, emotional management, and community engagement. The bill also outlines specific uses for the funds, including personnel salaries, training, and partnerships with local community programs. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 37.0814, Education Code 48.115 (Education Code 37, Education Code 48)