Bill > HB879

This bill establishes a Task Force to Improve Attendance and Reduce Chronic Absenteeism in Schools, comprising members from various educational and government sectors, including legislators, school administrators, teachers, parents, students, and experts. The Task Force will conduct comprehensive research on student absenteeism, analyzing data, identifying strategies, and developing recommendations to address the issue. Key responsibilities include collecting data on reasons for chronic absenteeism, creating a statewide reduction goal, developing guidance and toolkits for school leaders, and recommending best practices for preventing and eliminating chronic absenteeism. The Task Force will specifically focus on creating culturally responsive and non-punitive approaches to improving student attendance. The State Department of Education is required to update attendance regulations based on the Task Force's findings by December 31, 2025, and distribute guidance and toolkits to local school systems by June 30, 2026. The bill is temporary, taking effect on July 1, 2025, and automatically expiring on December 31, 2026, with no further action needed by the General Assembly. Throughout the process, the Task Force will aim to provide a holistic approach to understanding and addressing student attendance challenges across different grade levels.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0879?ys=2025RS