The bill, H.B. No. 2875, mandates that school districts in Texas develop and adopt local policies specifically aimed at addressing eloping behavior among students with autism or other intellectual or developmental disabilities. The bill defines "eloping" as the act of leaving a safe or supervised area unexpectedly, often triggered by sensory issues, anxiety, or communication difficulties. It allows school districts to implement policies that focus on behavioral support plans, staff training on the causes of eloping and safety measures, and nonpunitive approaches to incidents of eloping, ensuring they are not treated as disciplinary infractions.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that policies must not classify eloping as an intentional act of fleeing for unlawful purposes. It also permits school districts to collaborate with law enforcement and emergency services to create protocols for the safe recovery of students who elope. The provisions of this act will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and it will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()