"In response to continued discussions with many of you and further review, the Department of State Health Services has determined that flexibility exists in the current rule language to allow schools to screen for spinal abnormality in grades 6th and 9th, or 5th and 8th.
The department recognizes that although legislation did not pass this session to statutorily align spinal screening requirements with the recommendations of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), future efforts to change the existing statutory spinal screening requirements may occur through the legislative process.
The need to propose rule changes in the future is likely and the department commits to work closely with all stakeholders to inform and solicit input.
Thank you for working with us to ensure the health and well-being of children in Texas."