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, the bill establishes a conservatorship for the department of the terminated professor or instructor, lasting a minimum of 90 days, during which the president will assess and mitigate any ongoing risks of religious discrimination. The president is empowered to investigate further risks, implement preventive policies, and take necessary actions to eliminate any potential for future discrimination. This legislation will apply to allegations submitted after its effective date of September 1, 2025, regardless of when the alleged discriminatory conduct occurred.

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