The bill amends the Attendance for Success Act to clarify that absences permitted under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and those allowed as accommodations under certain federal and state laws are considered excused absences. It requires the Public Education Department to develop and publish written guidance on implementing the Attendance for Success Act, ensuring that schools understand how to manage attendance policies effectively. The bill also introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding attendance, including the responsibilities of parents and the role of local school boards in enforcing attendance policies.

Key changes include the definition of "excused absence," which now explicitly includes absences for medical reasons, religious instruction, and tribal obligations, provided they are authorized appropriately. Additionally, the bill allows for specific provisions for pregnant or parenting students, granting them up to ten consecutive days of absence upon the birth of their child and four days for related documentation. The amendments aim to enhance support for students with disabilities and ensure that absences related to their needs are recognized and accommodated without penalizing their attendance records.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-12A-2, 22-12A-4, 22-12A-9