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HB 1115

Relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district security personnel and the applicability to those officers of certain law governing private security.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Gary VanDeaver

HB 1115 lets Texas schools hire retired peace officers as security without requiring private security licenses, streamlining staffing while potentially reducing regulatory oversight.

Referred to Public Education
#education--primary&secondary--general(i0230) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #occupationalregulation--othertrades&professions(i0541) #peaceofficers(s0007)
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Bill Summary · HB 1115

Legislative bill overview

HB 1115 allows Texas school districts to employ honorably retired peace officers as security personnel while exempting them from certain private security licensing requirements that would normally apply. The bill streamlines the hiring process by recognizing the existing qualifications and training of retired officers rather than requiring them to obtain additional security licenses.

Why is this important

School safety has become a major policy focus following various incidents at educational facilities. This bill addresses potential staffing gaps by making it easier and more cost-effective for districts to hire experienced, vetted security professionals without additional regulatory hurdles. However, the exemptions granted could affect oversight and accountability mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability and accountability: Exempting retired officers from certain private security regulations may reduce oversight of their conduct and create ambiguity about who is responsible if incidents occur
  • Training standards: Retired officers' prior peace officer training may be outdated; the bill doesn't clarify whether refresher training on school-specific protocols is required
  • Scope of authority: The bill doesn't clearly define what law enforcement powers retired officers can exercise on school property, potentially creating confusion about their role versus active police

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

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