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SB 2220

Relating to the removal of a student from public school for the possession, use, or delivery of e-cigarettes on or near public school property or at certain school events.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Judith Zaffirini

Texas bill allows school districts to remove students for possessing, using, or delivering e-cigarettes on school property or at designated school events.

Referred to Education K-16
#electronicequipment(s0554) #education--primary&secondary--discipline(i0244) #tobaccoproducts(i0818)
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Bill Summary · SB 2220

Legislative bill overview

SB 2220 authorizes school districts to remove students from public school for possessing, using, or delivering e-cigarettes on school property or at designated school events. The bill creates a specific disciplinary framework for vaping-related violations, potentially allowing expulsion or removal as a consequence for these infractions.

Why is this important

E-cigarette use among students is a documented public health concern, and schools currently lack uniform, state-level guidance on how to handle these violations. This bill would establish standardized consequences across Texas districts, though it raises questions about whether removal/expulsion is proportionate to the offense compared to other disciplinary options like suspension or counseling.

Potential points of contention

  • Proportionality concerns: Whether permanent or long-term removal is an appropriate response to e-cigarette possession, particularly for first-time offenders or minors
  • Equity and disparities: Risk that removal disproportionately affects certain student populations, potentially worsening achievement gaps and dropout rates
  • Scope of authority: Whether "near school property" and "certain school events" are defined broadly enough to create ambiguity in enforcement and potential overreach
  • Alternative interventions: Whether the bill adequately addresses education, prevention, and rehabilitation approaches versus purely punitive removal

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

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