Bill > HB0399

This bill establishes new requirements for tracking and addressing chronic absenteeism in Utah schools, defined as a student missing 10% or more of school days in an academic year. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, local education agencies (LEAs) will be required to annually collect and report detailed data on student absences to the state board, including the total number of students, the number and percentage of chronically absent students by grade level, and specifics about each chronically absent student's absences. The state board must develop a standardized reporting template and publish anonymized statewide data on its website. Additionally, the bill mandates a comprehensive study of chronic absenteeism that will analyze data trends, research intervention strategies, examine root causes (such as socioeconomic factors, transportation issues, mental health, and student disengagement), and consult with various stakeholders including educators, administrators, parents, and community organizations. By September 15, 2026, the state board must submit a detailed report to the Education Interim Committee, including data analysis, root cause insights, evidence-based interventions, potential policy recommendations, and professional development suggestions for addressing chronic absenteeism. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0399.html