The measure is HB 1655.
If it becomes law, which is likely, The Dallas Morning News says Texas public schools could be fined if a teacher refers to students by their gender identity or preferred pronouns instead of biological sex.
Public school boards would also be required to adopt policies that prevent employees from assisting in a student's so-called social transition, which is when a mentally confused child pretends to be a girl or a boy.
The bill in Texas takes a completely opposite approach from other states, such as California, where its Democrat-dominated legislature passed a state law mandating schools hide gender ideology from parents. Informing parents was referred to as "forced outing."
Mary Elizabeth Castle, of Texas Values, says the bill addresses a common problem: After a school teacher indoctrinates students with gender ideology, some students predictably identify as the opposite gender. In many cases, the same teacher then helps the child and hides that "social transition" from disapproving parents.
“This bill appears to create some transparency so parents are involved,” Castle advises, “and so the correct measures can be taken by the parents to address gender dysphoria or some other issues."
The bill’s Republican sponsor, Rep. Nate Schatzline, told House members his bill addresses the twin issues of “deception” by teachers and the parental rights of parents that are being ignored.
Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the Texas Education Agency to investigate a Houston-area high school, Bellaire High, after teachers there were accused of hiding a junior student’s social transition from parents.
It’s unclear if that investigation, which dates back to mid-March, uncovered any wrongdoing but the allegation has been cited as evidence HB 1655 is needed in Texas.
