This bill amends Chapter 2, Title 33 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 33-213, which establishes prohibitions on excused absences for certain political activities in public schools. The legislation emphasizes the importance of civic education while asserting that political activism should not be part of the public education system. It specifically prohibits school districts, schools, or teachers from granting excused absences to students participating in political protests, working with groups known for such protests, or engaging in student walkouts. Any absence related to these activities will be classified as unexcused and will count against the school district's average daily attendance.
Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts report the total number of unexcused absences resulting from these activities to the Idaho superintendent of public instruction annually. Starting in January 2027, the state superintendent is required to submit an annual report to the legislature with this data. The state board of education is also tasked with creating rules to implement these provisions, subject to legislative approval. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.