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Bill

HB 4651

Relating to the period for which a public school student may be placed in a disciplinary alternative education program or expelled.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Alma Allen

HB 4651 adjusts how long Texas public school students can be placed in alternative discipline programs or expelled, affecting student re-enrollment and educational continuity.

Referred to Public Education
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Bill Summary · HB 4651

Legislative bill overview

HB 4651 modifies Texas law regarding the duration and conditions under which public school students can be placed in disciplinary alternative education programs (DAEP) or expelled. The bill specifically addresses timeframe limitations for these disciplinary measures, which currently allow placements of up to one school year. The exact provisions would clarify or restrict how long students can remain in these programs before returning to regular educational settings.

Why is this important

Disciplinary alternative education programs significantly impact student trajectories, academic progress, and long-term outcomes. These placements disproportionately affect certain student populations and determine whether students remain engaged with public education or face permanent exclusion. The timeframe for these placements directly affects students' ability to recover academically and return to mainstream education before graduating.

Potential points of contention

  • Student equity concerns: Whether current DAEP/expulsion durations perpetuate achievement gaps for already-marginalized student groups (low-income, students of color, students with disabilities)
  • School safety vs. rehabilitation: Tension between administrators' need to maintain discipline and security versus research suggesting shorter, rehabilitative approaches better prevent recidivism
  • Implementation challenges: Questions about whether shortened timeframes provide adequate time for behavioral intervention, or whether longer periods are necessary for serious infractions

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

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