S.B. No. 875 aims to prohibit electioneering activities by members of the board of trustees and superintendents of independent school districts, establishing criminal offenses for violations. The bill amends Section 11.169 of the Education Code to define "electioneer" and specifies that trustees and superintendents commit an offense if they use state or local funds or resources, including district email addresses and facilities, to support or oppose political candidates or measures. Exceptions are provided for hosting political forums or conventions, provided that all candidates or parties are given equal opportunity and that the events do not occur during early voting or election days. Violations are classified as Class A misdemeanors.

Additionally, the bill introduces Section 276.020 to the Election Code, which makes it an offense for campus administrators to allow political signs on school premises for more than 48 hours outside of designated voting periods. This offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. The changes in law will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 11.169, Education Code 11.201 (Education Code 11)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 11.169, Education Code 11.201 (Education Code 11)
Engrossed: Education Code 11.169, Education Code 11.201 (Education Code 11)
House Committee Report: Education Code 11.169, Education Code 11.201 (Education Code 11)