The bill aims to enhance enforcement provisions related to excessive absenteeism in public schools by making it a crime for parents to allow their excessively absent children to continue missing school. It amends Section 22-12A-12 of the New Mexico Statutes to include new language that establishes penalties for parents who fail to ensure their children's attendance. Specifically, if a student is reported for excessive absenteeism, the local school board or governing body must refer the case to the juvenile probation services office for investigation. If the student is found to be excessively absent after this referral, the local school board may then refer the parent to the district attorney for prosecution.

The bill introduces specific penalties for parents found guilty of allowing their children to remain excessively absent. A first conviction would result in a petty misdemeanor charge with a fine ranging from $50 to $100 or community service, while a second or subsequent conviction could lead to a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to six months. This legislative change aims to hold parents accountable and encourage better attendance among students, thereby addressing the issue of excessive absenteeism in schools.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-12A-12