The bill, S.B. No. 983, amends various sections of the Texas Education Code to establish new requirements for local school health advisory councils and to regulate instruction related to human sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity in public schools. Key provisions include the establishment of a local school health advisory council that must be appointed by the governing body of the school and the requirement for health education instruction to comply with Section 28.004. Additionally, the bill introduces a prohibition on providing instruction or activities regarding sexual orientation or gender identity to students from prekindergarten through 12th grade, while still allowing for the provision of physical or mental health-related services with parental consent.

The bill also outlines the duties of local school health advisory councils, which include recommending health education hours, policies for preventing health concerns, and appropriate curriculum for human sexuality instruction. It mandates the adoption of a written communication policy regarding discussions between school employees and students about reproductive and sexual health topics. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for parental involvement and awareness regarding risky behaviors and mental health concerns. The provisions aim to create a structured approach to health education while restricting certain discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity within the school environment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 12.104, Education Code 28.004 (Education Code 28, Education Code 12)