The bill, H.B. No. 5100, amends the Education Code to enhance the parenting and paternity awareness program in Texas public schools by incorporating instruction on adoption. Specifically, it mandates that the program include information about adoption, covering topics such as the differences between private adoption and foster care, the process for adopting a child, and adoption as an alternative to parenthood. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of relationship skills and includes provisions for addressing family violence prevention in schools that lack a dedicated program.

Furthermore, the bill allows school districts to develop or adopt research-based programs and curriculum materials that complement the existing parenting and paternity awareness program. These materials may include instruction on child development, parenting skills, and assertiveness skills aimed at preventing teenage pregnancy and abusive relationships. The changes outlined in the bill 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.

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