Bill > S453

This bill amends Chapter 71 of the Massachusetts General Laws to protect students from being penalized for absences directly related to the observance of sincerely held religious beliefs. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that overrides existing attendance regulations (referenced as section 31A), ensuring that students cannot be punished for missing school when their absence is due to a "meaningfully held religious belief." This means that schools would be required to treat such religious observance absences as excused, preventing potential academic penalties or disciplinary actions that might otherwise result from the student's absence. The legislation aims to provide students with greater flexibility to practice their religious traditions without fear of academic consequences. The bill would take effect immediately upon its passage, providing immediate protection for students seeking to observe religious holidays or practices that may conflict with their school's regular attendance schedule.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S453