The bill revises Montana's school laws regarding compulsory attendance by aligning the requirement with enrollment in public schools rather than the child's age. Specifically, it amends Section 20-5-103, MCA, to state that any parent or guardian responsible for a child enrolled in a public school must ensure the child attends school for the entire term. The previous stipulation that compulsory attendance begins at age seven has been removed, and the new language emphasizes enrollment as the trigger for attendance requirements.

Additionally, the bill outlines exceptions to the compulsory attendance rule, including cases where a child has been excused from enrollment, is absent due to illness or bereavement, has been suspended or expelled, or is excused under specific provisions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20-5-103