This bill aims to enhance the reporting and response mechanisms for school attendance issues related to children and families in Minnesota. It modifies the definition of "habitual truant" to include children under age 12 who have seven unexcused absences from school, thereby expanding the criteria for educational neglect. Additionally, the bill mandates that individuals who are required to report suspected truancy must notify local welfare agencies if a child has at least seven unexcused absences, and it allows for voluntary reporting by any person who suspects a child is at risk of educational neglect.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for local welfare agencies to respond to reports of unexcused absences, requiring them to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services to address attendance concerns. If a child's absences persist despite attempts to engage the family, the agency is required to report educational neglect. The bill also includes an appropriation of funds for grants to support child welfare response efforts, ensuring that local agencies have the resources necessary to improve school attendance and evaluate the effectiveness of their programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260C.007