Texas Senate revises SB 12 limiting school support for student gender transitions

The Texas Senate convened on May 31, 2025, to discuss the conference committee report for Senate Bill 12, which has undergone significant revisions since its initial approval in March. The primary focus of the meeting was to outline the changes made during negotiations between the Senate and House versions of the bill, which is centered on parental rights in education.

The first major point addressed was the removal of provisions that allowed for open enrollment across school districts. This change eliminates the public-to-public school transfer option previously included in the bill. Additionally, the House introduced language that prohibits school district personnel from assisting students with socially transitioning, including the use of new names or pronouns that contradict their biological sex at birth.

The committee retained a House amendment that allows parents to review their children's library and classroom materials. Furthermore, the House added a requirement for parental consent regarding psychological treatment for students, aligning with provisions from Senate Bill 400, which had previously received approval.

Another significant aspect of the bill is the establishment of a grievance process for parents. The House version creates a new chapter outlining a four-level local grievance review system, allowing parents to express concerns to school boards and ensuring transparency through public reporting of grievance data.

The discussion also highlighted the framework for student clubs, which requires parental consent for participation in clubs related to sexual orientation and gender identity. While school district employees are prohibited from providing instruction in these areas, student-led clubs may continue with parental permission.

Senators engaged in a detailed dialogue regarding the implications of the bill, particularly concerning the prohibition on assisting students with gender transitions. Concerns were raised about how this would affect students who have already begun transitioning and whether their identities would be respected under the new policy.

In conclusion, the Senate session on May 31 provided a comprehensive overview of the revisions to Senate Bill 12, emphasizing parental rights and the limitations placed on school personnel regarding gender identity issues. The bill's adoption is expected to have significant implications for educational practices in Texas, particularly concerning parental involvement and student support in matters of identity.