The administration of medication by open-enrollment charter schools, private schools, and school employees

Texas House Bill 3397, introduced in 2025, aims to establish guidelines for the administration of medication to students in open-enrollment charter schools and private schools. The bill outlines that schools and their employees are immune from civil liability and administrative disciplinary action for damages or injuries resulting from administering medication to a student, provided they have received a written request from the student's parent or legal guardian. For prescription medications, the bill specifies that administration must be from an original, properly labeled container or a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or qualified school employee. Additionally, the bill allows licensed physicians or registered nurses who volunteer at the school and are covered by the school's liability insurance to administer nonprescription medication or medication prescribed by the student's personal physician. However, the bill clarifies that this immunity does not cover injuries resulting from gross negligence.

Positive media analysis is being generated.

Although direct media reactions to HB3397 are not found, potential concerns may arise regarding the bill's immunity provisions. Critics might argue that granting immunity to schools and employees could lead to a lack of accountability in cases of medication errors or negligence. There may also be apprehension about the adequacy of training for school staff responsible for administering medication, raising questions about student safety and the potential for mishandling medications.