S.B. No. 2986 proposes amendments to the Education Code of Texas, specifically adding provisions that allow religious organizations to use public school and institution of higher education facilities for religious activities such as worship and assemblies. The bill stipulates that such use is permissible only if it does not interfere with the educational mission of the institution, the religious organization pays fair market value for the use of the facilities, and agrees to be liable for any damages incurred during their use. Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions under which the use of facilities would be considered as interfering with the educational mission, such as conducting activities during regular school hours or promoting the organization on school property.

Furthermore, the bill ensures that no penalties or sanctions can be imposed on educational institutions for allowing religious organizations to use their facilities, and it clarifies that institutions are not required to permit such use if they choose not to. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will not affect existing contracts unless they are renewed or modified after this date.

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