The bill, H.B. No. 4208, proposes to amend the Texas Education Code by adding a requirement for public school students to receive instruction on fetal development as part of the health curriculum. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection (r-2) to Section 28.002, mandating that the State Board of Education develop rules to ensure students learn about the humanity of the unborn child and the concept that life begins at fertilization. The instruction will cover various topics, including the human reproductive process, pregnancy, infertility, prevention of birth defects, and a detailed description of fetal growth during each trimester. Additionally, it specifies that certain educational videos and materials must be included in the curriculum.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 28.004(c) to expand the duties of local school health advisory councils. It adds a new item (9) that requires these councils to recommend appropriate curriculum for the fetal development instruction outlined in the new subsection. This ensures that the recommendations made by the councils align with the essential knowledge and skills established by the State Board of Education. The provisions of this bill are set to 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.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 28.002, Education Code 28.004 (Education Code 28)