This bill amends current law to prohibit school districts from denying a student admittance to school based on tardiness or violations of dress code or school uniform policies. Specifically, it states that students cannot be penalized for tardiness or for not adhering to a school uniform policy, with the exception of cases where a student's attire indicates gang affiliation associated with criminal activities. The bill also clarifies that while students cannot be denied admittance for these reasons, school boards retain the authority to enforce their adopted student codes of conduct or policies that do not conflict with this legislation.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions regarding school uniform policies, ensuring that if a board of education allows parents to opt out of such policies, students will not face academic penalties or discrimination for non-compliance. The legislation aims to create a more inclusive educational environment by ensuring that students are not barred from attending school due to factors that may be beyond their control, such as tardiness or dress code violations. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:11-8