Bill > HR711

This resolution creates a House Study Committee on Student Attendance in PreK-12 Education to address the critical issue of chronic absenteeism in Georgia schools. The committee will be composed of six members of the House of Representatives, appointed by the Speaker, who will examine the root causes of student absences, which have reached alarming rates (such as 21.7% statewide and up to 38.1% in some school districts). The committee's primary objectives include evaluating the factors contributing to absenteeism—such as health issues, family instability, socioeconomic barriers, transportation difficulties, and school climate concerns—and developing recommendations for legislative and policy initiatives to improve student attendance and engagement. Committee members will be eligible to receive standard legislative allowances, and they are required to conduct meetings and potentially produce a report with findings and suggested legislation by December 1, 2025. The resolution recognizes that chronic absenteeism significantly impacts student achievement, literacy rates, and long-term educational and career outcomes, and aims to develop a collaborative, multifaceted approach to addressing this complex educational challenge.

Education

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71601