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Bill

HB 2623

Relating to students enrolled in public schools subject to in-school or out-of-school suspension.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Will Metcalf

HB 2623 reforms Texas student suspension policies by establishing new procedures or restrictions for school disciplinary suspensions to improve educational equity and outcomes.

Referred to Public Education
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Bill Summary · HB 2623

Legislative bill overview

HB 2623 modifies suspension policies for public school students in Texas by establishing new procedures or limitations on in-school and out-of-school suspensions. The bill appears designed to reform how schools handle student disciplinary suspensions, though specific provisions require examination of the full text for precise details on restrictions, duration limits, or due process requirements.

Why is this important

Student suspensions significantly impact educational outcomes, with suspended students at higher risk of academic failure, dropping out, and involvement in the juvenile justice system. How schools discipline students affects millions of Texas families and shapes long-term outcomes for vulnerable student populations, particularly low-income and minority students who receive disproportionate suspension rates.

Potential points of contention

  • School autonomy vs. standardized requirements: Districts may resist state-mandated suspension limits or procedures as constraints on local discipline authority and campus-level decision-making
  • Safety vs. alternative discipline: Schools emphasizing campus safety may argue suspensions are necessary tools, while reform advocates prioritize keeping students in school through restorative practices
  • Implementation costs: Requiring alternative discipline programs or expanded counseling services could create budget pressures for already-strained school districts
  • Definition and scope clarity: The bill's specific triggers, duration limits, appeal processes, and which student infractions remain unclear without the full legislative text

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

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