The Texas Senate has approved SB 1871, a measure proposed by Senator Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), aiming to enhance school discipline laws. Passed on April 10th, the bill is intended to assist teachers in maintaining classroom order and ensuring administrative backing.

Senator Perry has previously attempted to implement similar legislation but faced hurdles as they did not advance past committee discussions. Throughout these legislative efforts, the Texas Classroom Teachers Association (TCTA) collaborated with Perry, providing feedback to enhance the bill and advocating for it during the Senate K-16 Education Committee hearings.

On the Senate floor, Perry highlighted the growing number of severe behavioral issues in classrooms and the challenges teachers face when seeking to remove disruptive students. While some educators receive support from their administrators, others encounter situations where students sent to the office are quickly returned to the classroom. The bill prompted discussions among senators, who asked for clarifications and suggested minor amendments, most of which Perry accepted.

The bill was unanimously passed with a vote of 30-0 and will be presented next to the House Public Education Committee for consideration.