This bill amends several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska related to school discipline, specifically addressing the suspension and expulsion of students. Notably, it eliminates the prohibition on suspending students in pre-kindergarten through second grade, allowing for greater flexibility in disciplinary actions. The bill also harmonizes existing provisions by removing references to section 79-265.01, which is outright repealed. The amendments to sections 79-263, 79-265, and 79-267 clarify the grounds for expulsion and suspension, ensuring that school districts adopt policies that require expulsion for students who possess firearms on school grounds and outlining the procedures for short-term suspensions.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the need for school districts to provide annual assurances to the State Department of Education regarding their disciplinary policies and the circumstances surrounding any expulsions. The intent of the legislation is to maintain a safe school environment while also allowing for appropriate disciplinary measures that consider the individual circumstances of each case. Overall, the changes aim to streamline the disciplinary process and ensure that schools can effectively manage student behavior while adhering to state laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 79-265.01, 79-265, 79-267