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HB 2378

Relating to certain misconduct committed by an employee or security personnel of a public school or certain other educational entities, including the criminal offense of improper relationship with a student.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Candy Noble

Bill establishes criminal offenses for improper relationships between Texas school employees/security and students, strengthening protections against educator misconduct.

Referred to Public Education
#educationagency #texas(v9941) #education #commissionerof(v9954) #education--primary&secondary--general(i0230) #education--primary&secondary--otherschoolpersonnel(i0246) #lawenforcement(i0510) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #parentalnotification(s0319) #peaceofficers(s0007)
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Bill Summary · HB 2378

Legislative bill overview

HB 2378 addresses misconduct by school employees and security personnel, specifically creating or clarifying criminal offenses related to improper relationships between school staff and students. The bill establishes definitions and penalties for prohibited conduct by educators and security personnel in public schools and related educational entities.

Why is this important

Student safety is a foundational concern for schools and parents. This legislation attempts to strengthen legal protections by explicitly codifying what constitutes criminal misconduct and potentially increasing consequences for violations. Clear statutory language can improve enforcement consistency and provide better institutional guardrails.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definitions: Disagreement may arise over what conduct qualifies as "improper relationship"—the distinction between professional boundary violations, emotional manipulation, and sexual conduct will likely be debated
  • Penalty severity: Questions about whether proposed penalties are proportionate, whether they apply equally to all educational settings, and whether they create unintended consequences for legitimate teacher-student interactions
  • Implementation and due process: Concerns about investigation procedures, employee rights during allegations, and whether protections exist for falsely accused staff members before criminal charges

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

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