Bill > HB1573

This bill permits students in public and public charter primary and secondary schools to have excused absences for participating in civic events and career or technical education (CTE) events, with specific provisions and limitations. Students are allowed two excused absences per 45 school days for these activities, which include government hearings, community organization meetings, political events, and CTE organization events like Future Farmers of America or SkillsUSA. Schools can require students to provide evidence of attendance, such as a signed form from an event official. The bill also offers additional accommodations, like excused time for 18-year-olds to vote and automatic excusal for youth advisory council participation. Furthermore, the state board of education is directed to develop rules that allow participation in civic and CTE events to count as alternative academic credit, potentially satisfying civic education graduation requirements. Parents must provide at least two days' notice before a student's absence, except on election days, and schools retain discretion to excuse additional absences beyond the specified limit. The bill aims to encourage student civic engagement and career exploration by removing barriers to participation in educational and civic activities.

Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2078&inflect=2