The bill, H.B. No. 497, mandates that school district employees must obtain written consent from a child's parent before providing behavioral or mental health services or treatment. This includes services related to contraceptives, such as emergency contraceptives, and informational materials on family planning, human sexuality, and mental health. The bill amends Section 26.009(a) of the Education Code, adding a new requirement for parental consent for these specific services while also removing the previous option that allowed for certain actions without consent.

The new provisions will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year. The bill stipulates that it will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from all elected members in both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 26.009 (Education Code 26)