S.B. No. 12 is a legislative bill designed to strengthen parental rights in public education and impose specific requirements on public schools regarding instruction and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The bill introduces new sections to the Education Code, including Section 1.007, which mandates compliance with required policies, and Section 1.009, which prohibits infringement on parental rights concerning their child's education unless there is a compelling state interest. Additionally, Section 11.005 explicitly prohibits school districts from assigning DEI duties unless mandated by state or federal law, and outlines consequences for violations. The bill also includes provisions for annual reporting on school facilities and amends existing sections to enhance parental access to instructional materials and the establishment of local school health advisory councils.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes parental authority over their children's education and health by requiring school districts to notify parents of any changes in health-related services and mandating written consent for psychological examinations and health care services. It establishes a grievance procedure for parents to address violations of their rights and introduces new procedures for handling grievances related to educational provisions. The bill also requires written consent for human sexuality instruction and prohibits instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, while enhancing communication between schools and parents regarding student performance. These changes are set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, aiming to reinforce parental involvement and streamline processes within the education system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 11.161, Education Code 12.104, Education Code 25.001, Education Code 25.036, Education Code 25.038, Education Code 26.001, Education Code 26.004, Education Code 26.008, Education Code 26.009, Education Code 26.011, Education Code 28.002, Education Code 28.0022, Education Code 28.004, Education Code 28.022 (Education Code 26, Education Code 25, Education Code 11, Education Code 28, Education Code 12)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 11.161, Education Code 12.104, Education Code 21.057, Education Code 25.001, Education Code 25.036, Education Code 25.038, Education Code 26.001, Education Code 26.004, Education Code 26.008, Education Code 26.009, Education Code 26.011, Education Code 28.002, Education Code 28.0022, Education Code 28.004, Education Code 28.022 (Education Code 26, Education Code 25, Education Code 11, Education Code 28, Education Code 12, Education Code 21)
Engrossed: Education Code 11.161, Education Code 12.104, Education Code 21.057, Education Code 25.001, Education Code 25.036, Education Code 25.038, Education Code 26.001, Education Code 26.004, Education Code 26.008, Education Code 26.009, Education Code 26.011, Education Code 28.002, Education Code 28.0022, Education Code 28.004, Education Code 28.022 (Education Code 26, Education Code 25, Education Code 11, Education Code 28, Education Code 12, Education Code 21)