The bill establishes the Office of Inspector General for Education within the Texas Education Agency, which will operate independently to investigate public education administration and employee misconduct. The inspector general, appointed by the board with Senate consent, must possess specific qualifications, including certification as an inspector general investigator. The bill outlines the inspector general's powers, such as conducting investigations, issuing subpoenas, and referring misconduct findings for administrative action. It also requires a memorandum of understanding between the inspector general, the board, and the attorney general to manage allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse of agency funds, while ensuring transparency through detailed record-keeping and annual reporting to state officials.

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Education Code to enhance accountability measures for educators regarding misconduct. It mandates that school officials notify the inspector general within 24 hours of learning about allegations and provides penalties for non-compliance, including administrative fines for principals and superintendents. The legislation also requires timely notification to parents or guardians about alleged misconduct and the provision of a redacted summary report of investigations. It prohibits retaliation against individuals reporting misconduct and clarifies the roles of the inspector general in the investigation process. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen oversight, protect students, and ensure ethical standards within the Texas education system, with an effective date of January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 21.006, Education Code 22.093 (Education Code 21, Education Code 22)