A new proposal would require schools to notify parents if a teacher or other employee observes their child engaging in acts of self-harm.
House Bill 1704 by State Rep. Nate Schatzline (R-Fort Worth) defines self-harm as attempted suicide, the expression of suicidal ideation, intentional ingestion of toxins, or acts of self-injury or self-mutilation.
Examples of self-injury include hitting, cutting, or burning oneself, while self-mutilation would cover high-risk sexual behaviors, substance abuse, and actions related to altering one’s biological sex.
The measure would also mandate that school staff notify parents if a student expresses gender confusion through words or behavior.
Since 2023, Senate Bill 14 prohibits healthcare providers from issuing puberty suppression drugs or conducting genital mutilation surgeries on minors. However, parents remain concerned about books, media, and teachers who support gender confusion and encourage children to hide self-mutilation from their parents.
Under HB 1704, if a school employee witnesses a student engaging in or expressing a desire to self-harm, the district would be required to immediately inform the parent.
If an employee fails to follow this procedure, they could face suspension or termination.
The 89th Legislative Session begins January 14.
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