The bill amends the Education Code to enhance the reporting requirements for public school employee misconduct to local law enforcement. It introduces a new subsection (b-3) that mandates superintendents or directors of various educational entities to notify the local police department or sheriff within 48 hours upon becoming aware of allegations of misconduct involving educators. Additionally, it amends existing subsections (i) and (j) to specify penalties for educators who fail to provide the required notice or reports, including administrative penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 and the potential for non-renewal of their certification until penalties are paid.

Furthermore, the bill adds a new subsection (c-1) to Section 22.093, which similarly requires notification to law enforcement regarding allegations of misconduct. It also updates subsections (i) and (k) to include provisions for referring educators who fail to comply with these reporting requirements to the State Board for Educator Certification for potential sanctions. The bill establishes that failing to provide notice with the intent to conceal misconduct is a state jail felony, thereby reinforcing accountability among educational administrators. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 21.006, Education Code 22.093 (Education Code 22, Education Code 21)