TX HB5615

Texas Education Agency would establish and administer a grant program for school districts to implement violence and substance abuse prevention programs, including opioid abuse prevention

School districts qualify for grants by demonstrating need based on violence/substance abuse incidents, high suspension/expulsion rates related to these issues, and desire to implement proactive, non-punitive intervention measures

Grant funds may be used for hiring and training de-escalation specialists and substance abuse counselors, implementing student support services, providing educational materials and workshops, and partnering with community-based organizations

Grant amounts are determined by student enrollment, demonstrated need based on incidents, and quality of the proposed "violence interrupters" program that includes conflict mediation, mentoring, and early intervention

Grant recipients must submit annual reports tracking outcomes including incidents intervened, reductions in violence and substance abuse, and improvements in attendance and academic performance; the program expires September 1, 2030