This bill mandates that the boards of directors of public school districts and the governing bodies of accredited nonpublic schools establish policies to excuse absences for students in grades nine through twelve who participate in civic or political events. Each student is entitled to at least one excused absence per school year for such participation, provided they notify the school in advance and demonstrate their learning through a short essay or other means. The bill outlines specific activities that qualify as civic or political events, including voting, serving as a poll worker, attending candidate speeches, and participating in public forums.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that absences related to these civic or political events do not count towards a student's chronic absenteeism record. This change aims to encourage student engagement in civic activities while ensuring that their educational standing is not adversely affected by their participation in such events.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 299.1, 299.12