Bill > HB2359

This bill requires high schools in Oregon to start no earlier than 8:30 a.m., with an exception for rural schools as defined by the State Board of Education. The bill amends several existing Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) to implement this requirement, including those governing school districts and public charter schools. The changes will become operative on July 1, 2027, and will first apply to the 2027-2028 school year. To support this transition, the Department of Education is mandated to provide technical assistance to school districts and public charter schools, including guidance on implementing the new start time, changing transportation schedules, and sharing research about the benefits of later school start times for adolescents. The department is also required to establish a grant program to help schools cover one-time costs associated with implementing the new start time, such as facility upgrades or communication expenses. Schools will be responsible for directly informing their communities about the research supporting later start times and providing a link to the department's informational resources. The bill aims to address student health and academic performance by ensuring high schools start at a time more aligned with adolescent sleep patterns.

Education

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2359