Senate Committee on Education heard Senate Bill 1972, introduced by Senator Middleton, which would prohibit a school district board of trustees from adopting or enforcing rules that restrict a trustee’s ability to express opinions on matters the board has voted on or any other school district issue.

Sponsor rationale: Middleton said the bill protects trustees’ First Amendment rights and preserves transparency and accountability by allowing trustees to speak publicly about decisions and positions they represent to constituents.

Public testimony: Paula Hilliard, testifying for Texas Education 911, supported the bill and told the committee she has seen board ethics policies used to silence trustees and limit access to information, which can impede a trustee’s ability to serve constituents. Hilliard urged safeguards so trustees cannot be “deprived of access to information” or “denied access to campuses,” and argued the bill would prevent abuses that chill open communication.

Committee disposition: After brief questioning, the committee took public testimony and left SB 1972 pending subject to the call of the chair.

Provenance: Sponsor remarks and multiple witnesses’ public testimony are recorded in the transcript.