Illinois just banned corporal punishment in all schools and it became just the fifth state to do so. It's 2024 and only five states in the country have banned corporal punishment- and Texas is not one of them.

Corporal punishment refers to the use of physical force with the intention of causing some degree of pain or discomfort as a form of discipline. It is typically used to correct or control behavior. This can include actions such as spanking, paddling, slapping, or hitting.

Yes, corporal punishment is legal in Texas, both in schools and in the home under certain conditions.

Texas law allows public school districts to use corporal punishment unless a parent or guardian provides a written statement prohibiting its use on their child. Each school district can set its own policies regarding corporal punishment, so practices may vary across the state.

At home, parents or guardians in Texas are legally allowed to use corporal punishment as a form of discipline, as long as it is reasonable and does not cause injury to the child. The law generally permits spanking or similar methods of physical discipline, but anything that causes significant harm or crosses into abuse is illegal.

It's important to note that there are ongoing debates and differences of opinion about the ethics and effectiveness of corporal punishment, and some districts or parents choose not to use it even though it is permitted by law.

Supporters argue that it can be an effective way to correct behavior, while opponents believe it can lead to physical and psychological harm, reinforce aggressive behavior, and is not an appropriate or effective form of discipline.