A bill for an act relating to students who attend a course in religious instruction that is provided by a private organization, including by modifying provisions related to compulsory education and chronic absenteeism and allowing school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to adopt policies related to awarding academic credit for the completion of a course in religious instruction.(See HF 870.)
Impact
If enacted, HSB218 will specifically alter the landscape of educational law concerning attendance policies and the recognition of religious instruction in the academic framework. The bill requires that upon a parent's request, a child be excused from attendance for up to five hours a week to attend religious instruction. Moreover, it mandates the integration of policies for managing chronic absenteeism associated with attending these courses, protecting the interests of those who partake in such religious education and their families.
Summary
House Study Bill 218 proposes modifications to existing laws regarding students attending courses in religious instruction provided by private organizations. This bill aims to create provisions enabling school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to adopt policies that allow students to receive academic credit for completing such courses. The legislation seeks to address issues relating to compulsory education and the chronic absenteeism of students engaged in religious instruction, ensuring that absences for this purpose are not counted towards truancy or similar penalties.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may arise from its implications for the existing educational system and the potential for community divisiveness. Critics could argue that providing academic credit for private religious instruction could blur the lines between public education and private religious teachings, raising concerns about educational equity and the state’s role in endorsing religious content. Additionally, the mechanics of how implementation might affect school funding, resources, and the oversight of non-public educational programs are areas likely to be debated among policymakers and the public.
Enforcement
The bill provides a mechanism for enforcement through civil action. If a parent or the child believes a school district is violating the provisions of HSB218, they can sue for injunctive relief and actual damages. This aspect of the bill empowers families and emphasizes accountability among school districts to adhere to the new regulations regarding the recognition of religious education.
Replaced by
A bill for an act relating to students who attend a course in religious instruction that is provided by a private organization, including by modifying provisions related to compulsory education and chronic absenteeism. (Formerly HSB 218.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.
A bill for an act relating to students who attend a course in religious instruction that is provided by a private organization, including by modifying provisions related to compulsory education and chronic absenteeism and allowing school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to adopt policies related to awarding academic credit for the completion of a course in religious instruction.
A bill for an act relating to students who attend a course in religious instruction that is provided by a private organization, including by modifying provisions related to compulsory education and chronic absenteeism. (Formerly HSB 218.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.
requiring schools to provide excused absences for certain religious instruction, defining released time courses, and permitting schools to adopt policies and provide credit for released time courses.
A bill for an act relating to mathematics instruction, including by requiring school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to develop an advanced mathematics pathway that is designed to enable students to succeed in courses related to algebra in grade eight.
A bill for an act requiring school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to adopt policies related to carrying out a reduction in force.(See HF 859.)
A bill for an act relating to compulsory education by modifying provisions related to chronic absenteeism and school engagement meetings, and providing penalties.