The bill, S.B. No. 401, amends Section 33.0832 of the Education Code to establish guidelines for the participation of non-enrolled students in University Interscholastic League (UIL) activities. It defines a "non-enrolled student" as one receiving instruction from a nonpublic school and clarifies that home schools are classified as private schools. The bill mandates that public schools allowing non-enrolled students to participate in UIL activities must provide them the same opportunities as enrolled students, while also allowing school boards to decline access to these activities through a majority vote. Additionally, it stipulates that non-enrolled students must meet certain eligibility standards and residency requirements to participate.

Key provisions include the requirement for non-enrolled students to demonstrate academic proficiency through standardized assessments and to provide ongoing verification of passing grades. The bill also ensures that non-enrolled students are subject to the same immunization requirements as public school students. Importantly, the act will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and it includes a provision for immediate effect if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 33.0832 (Education Code 33)