House bill would define chronic absenteeism, require AOE model policy and local adoption deadlines

Beth St. James of the Office of Legislative Council walked the committee through H.930 on April 3. The bill adds definitions, a model-policy requirement, templates for documentation and a timeline for adoption to address chronic absenteeism and truancy.

St. James explained the bill defines chronic absenteeism as a student who is absent for 10% or more of the school year for any reason (excused or unexcused). The bill lists permitted categories of excused absence (medical, family emergency, quarantine, appointments, religious holidays, legal proceedings, transitions related to homelessness, and a catch-all with superintendent approval) and allows pre-approved family absences up to 10 cumulative school days per year.

The Agency of Education must consult with education associations to develop and annually review a model policy that includes re‑entry supports, templates for documentation and guidance specific to students with disabilities. School districts and approved independent schools are required to adopt policies at least as stringent as the model. The bill requires AOE to present an update by March 15, 2027, finalize the model policy by July 1, 2027, and for districts to adopt policies by July 1, 2028.

On truancy, the bill retains existing enforcement options. Principals must notify superintendents after a student accrues 20 unexcused absences within a single school year or over 175 consecutive attendance days; truant officers investigate, issue notices and may file complaints with state's attorneys. St. James said current law allows up to $1,000 fines or a CHINS filing; the bill maintains those pathways and adds standardized templates for notices and reporting.

The bill repeals an older provision (section 1128) that authorized officers to take students found off campus and return them to school; it also asks AOE to report by Dec. 1 on home-study oversight and compliance. Committee members discussed the policy’s treatment of emotional and safety-related absences and asked about possible supports and mentoring programs; staff said the model policy is intended to provide tailored responses but details will be developed in consultation with stakeholders.