The Texas Senate has advanced legislation that would allow public and charter schools to hire chaplains to provide counseling and support services for students.
On April 24, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 763 (pdf), authored by Republican state Sen. Mayes Middleton, in a party-line vote of 19–11.
“Chaplains are important parts of our communities, whether it be military, police, or fire, they represent God and our government institution,” Middleton said during the Senate debate at the state Capitol.
While the bill would not require schools to hire chaplains, it would permit districts to provide additional support resources for students, parents, and teachers.
“[C]urrently, chaplains serve about 8.3 million students in 23 countries throughout the entire world. These chaplains and these programs have proven and demonstrated their impact to provide stability in the classroom,” Middleton continued, adding that their training and deescalation techniques can help reduce tension and frustration for students….