Texas Law Would Make Trespassing on School Grounds a Crime

House Bill 308 is a new Texas law proposal that would make trespassing on school and day-care property a crime. Sponsored by State Representative Jared Patterson and others, the bill defines a clear boundary for school safety: it would apply to anyone who enters or stays on school grounds or within 250 feet of school property without permission.

The law would make this behavior a Class A misdemeanor—a serious criminal offense. A person would break the law if they refuse to leave after a school administrator, teacher, or security officer asks them to go. The rule protects students and staff by preventing people who are disruptive, threatening, or harassing from being near schools and day-care centers.

There are important exceptions built into the law. Parents or guardians who pick up or drop off children would not break the law. People with written permission from the school would also be allowed on the property. The law only applies when someone has no legitimate reason to be there and refuses to leave when asked.

The bill takes effect December 1, 2025, if it passes. This gives schools and day-care centers a tool to enforce stronger safety boundaries and protect the people who work and learn in these spaces every day.

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