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GA SB438
GA SB438Education; the beginning age for compulsory school attendance from six years to five years; reduce
summary
Introduced
01/29/2026
01/29/2026
In Committee
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to elementary and secondary education, so as to reduce the beginning age for compulsory school attendance from six years to five years; to provide for all children to attend a full-day kindergarten program for one school year prior to enrolling in first grade; to provide for applicability of compulsory school attendance laws and rules; to provide for related matters; to provide for contingent effectiveness; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill amends Georgia law to lower the compulsory school attendance age from six years old to five years old, meaning children must begin attending school at age five. It also mandates that all children must attend a full-day kindergarten program for one school year before entering first grade, ensuring they are prepared for academic success. The bill clarifies that compulsory attendance laws, which require children to attend school between the ages of five and sixteen, will now apply to five-year-olds. This change is contingent upon a specific appropriation of funds in the state's budget.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (6)
Max Burns (R)*,
Marty Harbin (R)*,
Billy Hickman (R)*,
Chuck Hufstetler (R)*,
Chuck Payne (R)*,
Shawn Still (R)*,
Last Action
Senate Read and Referred (on 02/02/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72584 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/240806 |
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