The bill, H.B. No. 5306, aims to enhance school safety and mental health services within Texas school districts by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. It modifies Section 48.115(b) of the Education Code to specify that funds allocated for school safety must be used for various security measures, including infrastructure improvements, security personnel, and emergency response training. Notably, the bill removes previous language related to providing mental health personnel and services, instead emphasizing the establishment of threat detection and reporting systems.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new Section 48.117, which creates a mental and behavioral health allotment under the Foundation School Program. This allotment provides school districts with annual funding based on student enrollment to develop comprehensive mental health systems. The funds must be used to enhance mental health services, support staff training, and foster community partnerships, while ensuring that they do not replace existing funding for similar purposes. The bill mandates annual reporting on the use of these funds to ensure accountability and transparency in their application. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 48.115 (Education Code 48)