Bill > A02240

This bill amends the New York State education law to explicitly permit students to be absent from school for mental or behavioral health reasons. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that allows students to be absent due to mental or behavioral health concerns, with the details of such absences to be established by rules set by the state commissioner of education. This change is made in the section of law governing school attendance requirements, which previously only allowed absences for religious observance and education. The bill ensures that students can take time off for mental health reasons without being penalized, recognizing the importance of mental health in a student's overall well-being and educational experience. The new provision will apply to both public school students and those attending instruction elsewhere. The bill will take effect on the first of July following its passage, with immediate authorization for developing the necessary rules and regulations to implement the new absence policy.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2240