The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the expulsion of students for bringing deadly weapons to school. Under the new law, a pupil who brings a deadly weapon, in addition to a firearm, would be mandated to be expelled for at least one year, with the possibility of case-by-case modifications by the school district or charter school. The definition of "deadly weapon" would align with existing legal definitions, ensuring clarity in enforcement. Additionally, the bill would require governing boards to record the results of disciplinary actions in a pupil's permanent file if the pupil withdraws after receiving notice of potential disciplinary action.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for school districts and charter schools to disclose to other Arizona educational institutions whether a pupil applying for admission has been expelled, in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This change aims to enhance transparency and accountability in student disciplinary records. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen the existing framework for handling serious disciplinary issues in schools while ensuring that the rights of students are respected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-843
House Engrossed Version: 15-841, 15-843, 13-105, 15-802, 13-2911