Bill > HB367

This bill modifies the Texas Education Code to provide clearer guidelines for excusing students with severe or life-threatening illnesses from school attendance. Specifically, the bill requires school districts to adopt a standardized form for documenting medical absences and limits the documentation school districts can request from students or parents. Under the new provisions, physicians must provide a certification that includes four key pieces of information: the specific illness, a statement that the illness is serious or life-threatening, the anticipated period of absence, and a statement explaining why the student's attendance is infeasible during that period. The bill restricts school districts from demanding additional documentation beyond the adopted form, thereby simplifying the process for families dealing with serious medical conditions. The new requirements will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year, and school districts are required to develop the standardized form as soon as practicable after the bill's effective date. This legislation aims to make the absence verification process more straightforward and less burdensome for families of students with serious health challenges.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB367