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Bill

HB 340

Relating to a provision in a school district's student code of conduct prohibiting the wearing of clothing or displaying of items indicating membership in or support of certain organizations.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Matt Shaheen

Texas bill requiring school districts to ban student clothing/items showing membership in or support of specified organizations to address conduct concerns.

Referred to Public Education
#education--primary&secondary--general(i0230) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #gangs(s0154) #terrorism&internalsecurity(s0574)
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Bill Summary · HB 340

Legislative bill overview

HB 340 would require Texas school districts to include provisions in their student codes of conduct that prohibit students from wearing clothing or displaying items that indicate membership in or support of certain organizations. The bill specifies which organizations would be covered but does not detail enforcement mechanisms or penalties in the available summary.

Why is this important

School dress codes and conduct policies directly affect student expression rights and school safety approaches. This bill could significantly expand what schools can restrict students from wearing, potentially impacting how students exercise free speech and identify with peer groups, while districts argue such policies help prevent gang-related activity or disruption.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Students and civil liberties advocates may argue clothing restrictions based on organizational affiliation constitute unconstitutional limitations on freedom of expression and association
  • Vague definition of "certain organizations": The bill's reference to unspecified organizations creates ambiguity about what schools must prohibit and raises concerns about subjective enforcement and potential discrimination
  • Gang activity vs. legitimate groups: Distinguishing between gang insignia and legitimate student organizations, community groups, or political affiliations could prove difficult and contentious in implementation
  • Enforcement and equity: Questions about whether policies would be applied consistently across different student populations and whether schools have resources to properly enforce such restrictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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