First Law to Change School District Liability Since 1969
DALLAS, TX, October 13, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ — On September 1, 2024 a new Texas law went into effect that will hold public schools liable for sexual misconduct by an employee to an enrolled student. The law also holds public schools liable for an employee’s failure to report abuse or neglect of an enrolled student. “Employee” includes everyone from teacher interns to members of the School Board.
This law is the first change in school district liability since 1969 and only allows gross negligence claims for acts that occurred after September 1, 2025. The new law is well overdue and is designed to make sure students are protected from sexual abuse in public schools and that educators comply with obligations to report abuse, neglect, and educator misconduct. Claimants may recover damages up to $500,000.00.
According to the Texas Education Agency (TEA), between September 2021 and July 2024, there are over 2,400 reports of sexual misconduct involving educators and students. That equates to a 128% increase compared to reports taken between 2015 and 2021. By including public schools in liability for sexual misconduct, victims and their families are provided an additional path to justice. The new law raises the stakes for school districts to refine hiring practices, increase training, and facilitate a safe learning environment for all students.
About the firm
Founded in 2017, Kelso Law has established a reputation for securing multi-million dollar verdicts for personal injury claims in Dallas, Texas, and the surrounding areas. Founding attorney Rhiannon Kelso has over a decade of experience practicing law, and has tried 25 cases in front of Texas juries. Her passion for seeking justice on behalf of injury victims is evident in her fierce advocacy and aggressive litigation.
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