S.B. No. 609 mandates that independent school districts, home-rule school districts, and open-enrollment charter schools in Texas must comply with legally required policies. The bill introduces new language into the Education Code, specifically adding Section 11.012, which states that any legal requirement to adopt a policy also imposes a duty on the school district, its board of trustees, and personnel to implement and adhere to those policies. Similar provisions are added for home-rule school districts, campus charter schools, and open-enrollment charter schools in Sections 12.013, 12.056, and 12.104, respectively.

The bill emphasizes the responsibility of school governing bodies and personnel to act in accordance with policy requirements, thereby reinforcing accountability within educational institutions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 12.013, Education Code 12.056, Education Code 12.104 (Education Code 12)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 12.013, Education Code 12.056, Education Code 12.104 (Education Code 12)
Engrossed: Education Code 12.013, Education Code 12.056, Education Code 12.104 (Education Code 12)