The Legislature’s 89th session is seeing a wave of proposed legislation that could reshape workplace democracy in public schools for the better, a key right outlined by our K-12 and higher ed members in our Educator’s Bill of Rights. From expanding collective bargaining rights to strengthening grievance procedures, these bills could have a major positive impact on the working conditions of educators across the state.
HB 1077: Collective Bargaining for Public Employees
One of the most significant pieces of legislation this session, House Bill 1077 by Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons, would grant public employees, including teachers, the right to collectively bargain with their employers. If passed, this bill would reverse the long-standing ban on public-sector collective bargaining in Texas, giving educators more power to negotiate wages, benefits, and working conditions. This piece of legislation would protect teachers’ right to organize and strike without fear of retaliation, bolstering public educators’ impact in Texas.
For years, Texas educators have fought for better pay and improved classroom conditions, but without the ability to bargain collectively, progress has been slow. HB 1077 could be a game-changer, ensuring that teachers have a seat at the table when critical decisions are made about their profession.
HB 2112 & HB 2336: Strengthening Grievance Rights
Both HB 2112 by Rep. Ron Reynolds and HB 2336 by Rep. Alma Allen focus on ensuring that school district employees can present grievances directly to their district’s board of trustees. While current policy allows for grievance procedures, these bills would guarantee that employees have the right to make their case in person.
This is a crucial step in workplace democracy. Too often, teachers and school staff face bureaucratic hurdles when raising concerns about unfair treatment, contract disputes, or unsafe working conditions. By formalizing the right to bring grievances directly to decision-makers, these bills empower educators to advocate for themselves without unnecessary obstacles.
HB 2987: Accountability for School Planning Committees
HB 2987 by Rep. Alma Allen would require school boards to annually certify that district and campus-level planning committees have been established and are functioning effectively. These committees play an essential role in shaping school policies, yet some districts fail to maintain them properly.
By enforcing accountability, this bill ensures that teachers and school employees remain actively involved in decision-making processes at the district level. When educators have a voice in shaping policies, the entire school community benefits from informed, practical solutions.
HB 2533 & SB 788: Limits on TEA Takeovers and School Closures
One of the biggest concerns for educators is state intervention in school district governance. HB 2533 by Rep. Ron Reynolds ensures that if a district is placed under the control of a conservator or board of managers due to low performance, local control must be restored once the affected campuses improve. This prevents long-term state takeovers, ensuring democratic representation remains intact.
SB 788 by Sen. Carol Alvarado modifies existing laws requiring the Texas Education Agency to close campuses or install a board of managers if a school remains underperforming for five years. Instead of a mandatory takeover, the bill gives the state more flexibility to work with districts on alternative solutions, which could help avoid abrupt school closures that disrupt communities, as we’ve seen in Houston ISD.
What’s Next?
If passed, these common-sense bills could represent a major step forward for democratic representation in Texas schools and should receive bipartisan support. However, given the political climate in the state, we know these bills face an uphill battle. Texas AFT will keep fighting and urges all educators to stay informed, reach out to their representatives, and make their voices heard.