H.B. No. 2050 amends the Education Code to redefine the responsibilities of public school counselors in Texas. The bill emphasizes that a school counselor's primary role is to support students in developing their academic, career, and personal abilities. Additionally, it expands the scope of the school counselor's duties to include planning and implementing a comprehensive developmental school counseling program that addresses the needs of various student populations, particularly those at risk of dropping out, substance abuse, or engaging in harmful behaviors. The bill also highlights the importance of consulting with parents and guardians, collaborating with school staff and community members, and providing guidance on educational and career planning.

Key changes in the bill include the insertion of "and personal" to the list of abilities counselors should help students develop, replacing "guidance" with "school counseling," and adding specific categories of at-risk students that counselors should focus on, such as those at risk of choosing unhealthy solutions to problems or engaging in harmful behavior. The bill is set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, with provisions for immediate effect if it receives the necessary legislative approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 33.006 (Education Code 33)