The bill, H.B. No. 3548, aims to amend the Education Code regarding local school health advisory councils and the instruction of human sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity in public schools. Key provisions include the establishment of a local school health advisory council, which will be responsible for recommending health education policies and curricula, including instruction on human sexuality and mental health. The bill also introduces a new section that prohibits school districts and charter schools from providing or allowing third parties to offer instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity to students from prekindergarten through 12th grade.
Additionally, the bill amends existing sections to include requirements for communication policies regarding reproductive and sexual health curriculum, ensuring that school employees refer students to parents or counselors for discussions on these topics. It also emphasizes the need for parental involvement and awareness regarding health education and risky behaviors. The bill includes various insertions, such as the establishment of local school health advisory councils and specific guidelines for health education, while deleting certain provisions that are no longer applicable. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Education Code 12.104, Education Code 28.004 (Education Code 28, Education Code 12)