S.B. No. 1069 introduces new procedures for addressing allegations of religious discrimination against students at public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill adds Sections 51.985 and 51.986 to the Education Code, which mandate that the president of an institution investigate any claims of discrimination made against professors or instructors based on religion. If the investigation confirms discrimination, the institution is required to terminate the employment of the offending faculty member. Additionally, the president must ensure due process for the accused and follow existing institutional policies for handling discrimination complaints.

Furthermore, if a professor or instructor is terminated under these provisions, their department will be placed under the conservatorship of the president's office for a minimum of 90 days. During this period, the president is empowered to investigate potential ongoing risks of religious discrimination, implement necessary policy changes, and take actions to mitigate any further risks. The new provisions will apply to allegations submitted on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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