This bill amends existing laws to accommodate students attending courses in religious instruction provided by private organizations. It modifies provisions related to compulsory education and chronic absenteeism, allowing school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to adopt policies for awarding academic credit for such courses. The bill specifies that these policies must not consider the religious content or denominational affiliation of the course when determining if it meets educational program requirements. Additionally, it outlines the necessary conditions for students to be exempt from compulsory attendance while attending these courses, including parental notification, limits on absences, and requirements for record-keeping and liability.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that absences due to attending religious instruction will not count towards truancy or chronic absenteeism metrics. It also provides a legal avenue for parents or guardians to seek injunctive relief and damages if they believe a school district has violated the provisions of the bill. If they prevail in such actions, they are entitled to recover reasonable court costs and attorney fees. Overall, the bill aims to integrate religious instruction into the educational framework while ensuring that students' rights and educational standards are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.7, 279.87, 299.1, 299.12