TITLE: Relating to the authority of school districts and school district students to participate in University Interscholastic League competitions.

SUMMARY: Relating to the authority of school districts and school district students to participate in University Interscholastic League competitions.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the authority of school districts and school district students to participate in University Interscholastic League competitions. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter D, Chapter 33, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 33.0834 to read as follows: Sec. 33.0834. SCHOOL BUS SEAT BELT COMPLIANCE AS CONDITION OF PARTICIPATION IN UNIVERSITY INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE COMPETITIONS. (a) In order to ensure the safety of all students, including those who participate in off-campus activities, it is the public policy of this state to take every measure possible to protect the lives and well-being of students while being transported to and from school and extracurricular activities. (b) Unless a school district obtains a waiver from the agency as provided by Subsection (c), the University Interscholastic League may not permit a school district or the school district's students to participate in a competition sponsored by the league unless the school district is in compliance with the school bus seat belt requirements imposed by Section 547.701(e), Transportation Code. (c) The agency may provide a waiver for purposes of Subsection (b) if a school district demonstrates to the agency's satisfaction that the district: (1) is unable to comply with the school bus seat belt requirements because of financial hardship; and (2) has pursued all potential sources of funding available to assist a school district with the cost of complying, including private donations and assistance available from the agency as a result of state appropriations. (d) The commissioner may adopt rules necessary to implement this section. (e) Section 547.701(f), Transportation Code, does not affect the requirement imposed under this section. SECTION 2. Section 33.0834, Education Code, as added by this Act, applies beginning with the 2018-2019 school year. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2017.