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 by professors or instructors based on religion. If discrimination is confirmed, the institution is required to terminate the employment of the offending faculty member. The president must ensure due process for the accused and follow existing institutional policies for handling discrimination complaints.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a professor's or instructor's employment is terminated due to discrimination, their department will be placed under the conservatorship of the president for at least 90 days. During this period, the president is empowered to investigate further risks of discrimination, implement preventive policies, and take necessary actions to eliminate any ongoing risks. The provisions of this bill will apply to allegations submitted on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, regardless of when the alleged discriminatory conduct occurred.

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