A new Texas law ensures parents must give written permission before Dallas ISD staff can provide non-emergency health services to students — reinforcing parental involvement in school-based care.
Senate Bill 12, passed by the Texas Legislature, requires written consent before school staff can provide any health-related services beyond life-saving emergency care. That means school nurses, teachers, coaches, and counselors must have a signed form on file before offering routine support that had previously been standard in Texas schools for decades.
The new law affects everything from first aid for minor injuries to vision screenings, hearing tests, and administration of over-the-counter medication. Even diabetes education, concussion protocols, and bullying prevention programs are now off-limits unless parents have checked “yes” and signed the Parental Consent for School Health-Related Services form.
School personnel covered under the law include nurses, assistants, athletic trainers, teachers, counselors, and others responsible for supervising students. Parents must sign the form annually during enrollment. Once approved, it remains valid for the entire school year.
Supporters say the law reflects growing concerns from parents about schools making health-related decisions without their input.
Advocates argue that requiring consent for non-emergency care brings schools in line with existing policies on medication, mental health referrals, and sexual education — all of which require parental permission in many districts.
The law prioritizes parent involvement and keeps school health services accountable to families.