AUSTIN — Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said Wednesday he will push legislation that would lower Texas public schools’ annual performance ratings if they fail to remove books containing graphic sexual content from their libraries.
Patrick said schools could lose an entire letter grade under his proposal if state officials determine that a prohibited book remains on a library shelf. A school rated “A,” for example, could receive a “B” rating.
Patrick made the announcement at the Texas Capitol, where he displayed covers of books he said contain obscene or pornographic material and remain available in some Texas schools.
The proposal targets compliance with Senate Bill 13, a 2025 law that gave school boards greater authority to review and remove books following complaints from parents and advocacy groups.
Patrick said many school boards have not acted despite the law being in effect for nearly a year.
“It’s the law and we expect you to follow the law. So we’re coming for the books,” Patrick said during the news conference.
Patrick said the legislation would not constitute a book ban because the state would not prohibit people from purchasing or possessing the books. Instead, he said public schools should not use taxpayer money to place such books in school libraries.
Texas has more than 9,000 public school campuses serving about 5.5 million students.
The proposed penalties would add another layer to the state’s long-running disputes over books that address topics including race and LGBTQ+ issues. Critics of book restrictions have argued that students should have access to literature that reflects different identities and experiences.
Patrick said some of the books displayed at the news conference include depictions of masturbation and graphic images of genitalia. He said the material would be inappropriate for students.
As president of the Texas Senate, Patrick has significant influence over which legislation receives consideration in the chamber.
Patrick is seeking reelection this year and will face state Rep. Vikki Goodwin, D-Austin, in November.
