The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPTexas) opposes House Bill 2947, which increases fines for parents whose children are deemed truant and expands mechanisms for referring students to truancy court. This punitive approach to school attendance undermines individual liberty, disproportionately harms vulnerable families, and deepens government overreach into private life.

Criminalizing Poverty and Parental Autonomy
HB 2947 increases fines up to $800 for repeat truancy violations, compounding the financial hardship of families already struggling with systemic obstacles. Punishing parents through the criminal justice system for attendance issues is unjust and counterproductive, especially when many of these challenges stem from poverty, instability, or unmet special education needs.

Expanding State Coercion and Surveillance
This bill further empowers school districts and courts to bypass previously required prevention measures, making it easier to refer children and families to the court system. LPTexas opposes expanding government authority to coerce compliance through fines, court orders, and criminal records for behavior that should be addressed through support, not punishment.

Undermining Educational Freedom and Local Responsibility
Education should be voluntary and flexible—not compulsory and enforced through escalating penalties. HB 2947 reflects a top-down, bureaucratic mindset that treats families as problems to be policed rather than partners in learning. LPTexas supports educational choice, parental rights, and local solutions over coercive mandates.

Conclusion
The Libertarian Party of Texas urges the Legislature to reject HB 2947. Increasing fines and court involvement for truancy only deepens the harm to families and erodes civil liberties. Real reform means reducing state control over education and trusting families—not punishing them.