✅Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of attending a released time course.

✅ SB 1049: Excused absences for off-campus religious instruction

What it says it does:
SB 1049 says that if a parent wants their child to leave school for religious instruction, the school must excuse the absence. The program is voluntary, and parents must give written consent.

What it actually changes:
It requires every district and charter school to create a policy by January 1, 2026, allowing students to attend religious classes outside school for up to five hours a week. The family and provider handle transportation, attendance, and safety. The school cannot pay for or organize the instruction.

Who is pushing for it:
Supporters in the files include the Alliance Defending Freedom, First Liberty Institute, and LifeWise Academy. The Texas Education Agency appeared as neutral.

Who benefits:
Parents who want their children to receive religious education during the school week. Students gain the option to practice their faith without being penalized at school. Schools maintain neutrality because they are not involved in the instruction or funding.

Who gets left out or exposed:
Districts may have small administrative burdens because “de minimis costs” is not clearly defined. Smaller or rural schools could face scheduling and tracking challenges if participation grows.

Why this matters long term:
This bill keeps the wall between church and state intact while respecting family choice. It sets a consistent rule statewide and avoids forcing religion into classrooms.

What to watch next:
How the Texas Education Agency and local boards define “de minimis costs.” Whether districts report problems balancing instructional time when large numbers of students participate.

Bottom line:
SB 1049 protects neutrality in public schools while giving families freedom to practice religion off campus. It is a balanced approach that supports both faith and fairness.

Questions to ask lawmakers:

How will districts track whether high participation is affecting instructional time, course completion, or campus performance, especially for students already struggling?

What guardrails will protect students with disabilities so “transportation is handled privately” does not turn into uneven access based on family resources?

Would you support a public review after a few years so Texans can see how many students use it, what the administrative workload looks like, and whether the policy is working as intended?


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