Legislative Updates

NEW LEGISLATION AFFECTING PUBLIC SCHOOLS, 2025-26:

Student Devices in Schools - House Bill 1481 prohibits student use of personal communication devices such as any type of cell phone, tablet, smartwatch, radio device or other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication on school property during the school day, and requires disciplinary measures for violations. Read more online.

Participation in Clubs (Secondary Students Only) - Senate Bill 12 requires permission from parents for their children to participate in student clubs authorized or sponsored by Eanes ISD or an EISD campus. This form grants your permission for your child to sign up for and participate in any club. If you have a student in grades 6-12, please complete this form.

Health Screenings -  Senate Bill 12 requires parents to consent to routine health screenings required by Texas law for vision, hearing, spinal development (scoliosis) and risk factors for Type 2 diabetes (such as acanthosis nigricans). These screenings are intended to identify potential concerns early, allowing families to seek further evaluation and care if needed. Please complete the consent form indicating if you give permission for the school to conduct these screenings. Please note all screenings are not provided at each grade level. 

Ten Commandments - Senate Bill 10 requires public schools to post a durable poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments in a conspicuous place in each classroom. However, last week the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas (the judicial district encompassing Eanes ISD) temporarily blocked SB 10 from taking full effect, finding the law was unconstitutional under the First Amendment. Notably, the ruling only applies to the Texas school districts named in the lawsuit. However, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, the court with jurisdiction over Texas, has issued a similar ruling on a Louisiana law regarding the posting of the Ten Commandments in public schools.

On Monday, August 25, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued a statement directing all Texas public school districts not enjoined by the Western District's ruling to comply with SB 10. This is an ever-evolving legal issue in Texas, therefore, Eanes ISD will continue to monitor the legal landscape relating to SB 10.