The bill, H.B. No. 497, mandates that school district personnel must obtain written parental consent before providing behavioral or mental health services to students. This includes not only psychological examinations and treatments but also the provision of contraceptives, including emergency contraceptives, and informational materials related to family planning, human sexuality, and mental health. The bill amends Section 26.009(a) of the Education Code to include these requirements, specifically adding a new provision that outlines the need for consent for these services.

The legislation will take effect at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, and it will be implemented immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature. If not, the bill will become effective on September 1, 2025. The changes aim to enhance parental involvement in their children's mental health and behavioral treatment decisions within the school system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 26.009 (Education Code 26)
House Committee Report: Education Code 26.009 (Education Code 26)