The Arc of Texas Provides Input on Enhancement of Cameras in Classrooms Law Passed in 2015

Verbal Testimony from The Arc of Texas on HB 3312

Chair and Members of the Committee,

Thank you for the opportunity to testify today in support of HB 3312, which seeks to enhance the original cameras in classrooms law passed in 2015. This law was an important step in ensuring the safety and well-being of students with disabilities, particularly those in self-contained classrooms who may have significant support needs and, in some cases, are nonverbal.

As you know, children with disabilities can be especially vulnerable in the classroom environment, and the cameras in classrooms law was designed to give parents of students receiving special education services the ability to request a camera be placed in their child’s classroom to help monitor safety. This law has been valuable for providing peace of mind to parents, while also supporting the needs of educators and staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment.

HB 3312 seeks to strengthen this important framework by ensuring that video recordings of classroom incidents involving an employee are retained until the incident is fully resolved, including any appeals. This change is vital for ensuring that all available evidence is preserved and can be reviewed thoroughly during the resolution process. By requiring the retention of these recordings, the bill helps to provide clarity and transparency for all parties involved.

In addition, the bill makes important strides in increasing access to these recordings. It ensures that school districts or charter schools do not limit the number of times a parent or employee may view recordings that document an alleged incident. Moreover, it requires that recordings be made available to an attorney within one week of receiving a request. These changes are designed to promote transparency and allow for a fair and informed review of any situation that may arise.

The updates to this law will strengthen its original intent, helping ensure that all students with disabilities are afforded the protections they need to be safe and supported in the classroom.

I respectfully urge you to support HB 3312 in order to continue making progress in protecting and supporting our most vulnerable students.