This bill aims to reform K-12 public school discipline in Wyoming by mandating school district boards of trustees to adopt specific rules and policies regarding student punishment and discipline. Key provisions include the requirement for school districts to establish rules for the use of reasonable force by employees when removing students from school property, ensuring that all employees have the authority to discipline students. The bill also stipulates that consequences for student misconduct may include various disciplinary actions, such as in-school suspension or referral for behavioral modification, and emphasizes the need for immediate assistance for employees enforcing these rules.

Additionally, the bill eliminates the previous ability of school districts to withhold diplomas for unpaid fines, modifies civil and criminal immunity for school district employees, and introduces a requirement for school districts to take reasonable steps to ensure safety when physical violence is likely. It repeals certain provisions related to the denial of diplomas and the immunity of educators in exercising corporal discipline. The bill requires all school districts to adopt the new policies by August 1, 2026, and becomes effective immediately upon completion of legislative processes.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0088 v0.7: 21-2-304, 21-4-308