H.B. No. 1405 aims to enhance the policies and procedures regarding bullying and cyberbullying in public schools in Texas. The bill introduces new provisions in the Education Code, specifically adding Subsections (h) and (i) to Section 28.0022, which clarify that school employees are permitted to implement strategies to prevent or mediate bullying based on a victim's actual or perceived characteristics, such as religion, race, or disability. Additionally, the definitions of "bullying" and "harassment" are updated to include specific characteristics that can be targeted, and the bill mandates that school districts adopt comprehensive policies to address bullying, including supportive measures for impacted students.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 37.0832 to require school districts to establish detailed procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing incidents of bullying, including the provision of supportive measures that are not punitive. It emphasizes the importance of creating a safe educational environment and mandates annual reporting of bullying incidents, including those involving cyberbullying. The Texas Education Agency is tasked with adopting minimum standards for these policies, which must be implemented by the 2025-2026 school year. The bill also specifies that supportive measures must be provided without charge and regardless of a student's participation in investigations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 28.0022, Education Code 37.0832 (Education Code 37, Education Code 28)
House Committee Report: Education Code 28.0022, Education Code 37.0832 (Education Code 37, Education Code 28)