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HB 2947

Relating to truancy and the offense of a parent contributing to nonattendance.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Helen Kerwin and 1 co-sponsor

HB 2947 adjusts Texas parental liability standards for student truancy by redefining when parents can be held responsible for their child's school nonattendance.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#criminalrecords(s0008) #education--primary&secondary--admission&attendance(i0227) #family--parent&child(i0355) #truancy(s0796)
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Bill Summary · HB 2947

Legislative bill overview

HB 2947 modifies Texas law regarding parental responsibility for student truancy by adjusting definitions and enforcement mechanisms related to contributing to a child's nonattendance at school. The bill has passed through committee review with a substitute version, indicating legislative modifications to the original language. The specific amendments are focused on clarifying when parents can be held liable for their children's chronic absenteeism.

Why is this important

Truancy laws directly affect school funding (tied to attendance), student academic outcomes, and family interactions with the criminal justice system. Changes to parental liability standards can either strengthen accountability for chronic absenteeism or reduce criminalization of families facing attendance barriers like transportation issues, health problems, or economic hardship. Texas's approach influences how school districts enforce attendance and whether families face legal consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining parental culpability: Determining what constitutes a parent "contributing to" nonattendance versus circumstances beyond parental control (student driving themselves, disabilities, homelessness)
  • Criminalization vs. support: Whether penalizing parents effectively reduces truancy or diverts resources from addressing root causes like mental health, learning disabilities, or family instability
  • Disproportionate impact: Risk that enforcement may fall harder on low-income families and communities of color with less access to legal resources or flexible work arrangements

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

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