In a move that could reshape the landscape of Texas public education, Representative Nate Schatzline (R-District 93) introduced House Bill 4040 (HB 4040) on March 7, 2025, during the 89th Texas Legislative Session.
HB 4040, officially titled “AN ACT relating to prohibiting diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at school districts; authorizing an administrative penalty,” aims to eliminate DEI-related policies in Texas public schools and impose hefty penalties for non-compliance.
While the full text is still unfolding through the legislative process, its core provisions, as outlined on the Texas Legislature Online, include a ban on DEI practices—potentially encompassing staff training, student programs, and curriculum elements tied to diversity or equity goals.
Districts found in violation could face fines of up to $1 million and lose state funding for an entire fiscal year, according to the bill’s introduced version Texas Legislature Online, HB 4040 History.
The bill’s enforcement measures signal a strong intent to ensure compliance. If passed with a two-thirds majority in both the Texas House and Senate, it would take effect immediately; otherwise, it would begin on September 1, 2025, impacting the 2025-2026 school year.
Behind HB 4040 stands Rep. Nate Schatzline, a first-term legislator from Fort Worth with a reputation for spearheading conservative causes. A former pastor, Schatzline has built his political identity around protecting family values and opposing what he describes as divisive ideologies in schools.
His campaign website highlights his commitment to ensuring education focuses on core academics rather than “racist ideologies,” a stance that aligns with HB 4040’s objectives. Schatzline’s prior efforts, such as a 2023 bill restricting drag performances, reflect a consistent pattern of targeting cultural and educational policies he views as contrary to traditional values.
HB 4040 does not exist in isolation. It builds on a 2023 law, Senate Bill 17, which banned DEI offices and programs at Texas public universities, signed by Governor Greg Abbott and became effective January 1, 2024. That legislation, authored by Sen. Brandon Creighton, marked Texas as a leader among states curbing DEI in higher education.
Now, with HB 4040 and parallel Senate proposals, the focus has shifted to K-12 schools, signaling a comprehensive state strategy to dismantle such initiatives across all educational levels.
The bill also resonates with priorities outlined by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who included education reform among his top legislative goals for 2025. Patrick’s support could elevate HB 4040’s profile as the session progresses Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, January 29, 2025.
At its core, HB 4040 reflects a deep ideological divide. Supporters, including Schatzline, argue that DEI practices foster division by prioritizing race, gender, or ethnicity over individual merit.
Critics, however, warn that banning DEI could undermine efforts to support a diverse student population of over 5 million in Texas public schools.
As of March 14, 2025, HB 4040 remains in its infancy. Filed just a week ago, it awaits committee assignment—likely to the House Public Education Committee—where it will face scrutiny, public hearings, and potential revisions.
The 89th session, running until June 2, 2025, offers ample time for debate, but the bill’s success hinges on navigating a politically complex landscape. While Republicans dominate both chambers, past education reforms, like school vouchers, have stumbled due to opposition from rural Republicans and Democrats.
HB 4040’s fate may depend on whether it can unify these factions or if it becomes mired in broader partisan battles.
The answer lies in the months ahead as lawmakers, educators, and the public weigh in on this contentious proposal.