The bill, S.B. No. 201, aims to enhance the role of social workers in Texas school districts by establishing specific responsibilities and services they are expected to provide. It introduces a new section, 33.905, to the Education Code, defining "school social work services" as specialized assistance designed to alleviate barriers to learning, connect families and communities with schools, advocate for students' academic success, and address basic and biopsychosocial needs. The bill mandates that social workers collaborate with district administrators, serve on committees addressing education and safety, and work with parents and teachers to develop prevention strategies for violence, suicide, and child abuse.

Additionally, the bill allows school districts to adopt policies requiring social workers to dedicate at least 80% of their work time to these specified duties. The provisions of this act will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and it will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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