S.B. No. 1049 amends the Texas Education Code to allow for excused absences from public school for students attending released time courses, which are defined as courses in religious instruction offered by private entities. The bill requires school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to excuse students for attending these courses for a duration of at least one hour but not exceeding five hours per week, provided that a parent or legal guardian requests the absence. Additionally, the bill mandates that each school district adopt a policy outlining the conditions under which students can be excused for this purpose.

The new policy must include several requirements, such as obtaining written consent from a parent or guardian, maintaining attendance records by the private entity offering the course, and ensuring that transportation to and from the course is the responsibility of the private entity, parent, or student. The policy also prohibits the use of school funds to facilitate the course and restricts the offering of these courses on school property unless under a neutral access policy. The bill requires all school districts to adopt this policy by January 1, 2026, and it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 25.087 (Education Code 25)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 25.087 (Education Code 25)
Engrossed: Education Code 25.087 (Education Code 25)
House Committee Report: Education Code 25.087 (Education Code 25)
Enrolled: Education Code 25.087 (Education Code 25)