Bill > HB3445

This bill strengthens Oregon's truancy enforcement by modifying several statutes related to school attendance and creating clearer consequences for students who do not attend school regularly. Specifically, the bill establishes that failure to maintain regular school attendance is now classified as a Class C violation, which can result in a maximum fine of $500. Before issuing a citation, school district superintendents must first provide written notification to parents and students explaining the attendance requirements, potential legal consequences, and the need to attend a conference and meeting with school representatives. The bill requires courts to forward conviction abstracts for school attendance violations to the Department of Education and mandates that when a citation is issued, half of the collected fine goes to the school district and half goes to the state, county, or city court that processed the citation. The changes will apply to school absences occurring on or after July 1, 2025, and the bill includes an emergency clause to emphasize the immediate importance of addressing student attendance issues. By creating more structured interventions and potential financial penalties, the legislation aims to reduce chronic absenteeism and encourage consistent school participation.

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https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3445