summary
Introduced
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Subpart 2 of Part 1 of Article 16 of Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to compulsory attendance relative to elementary and secondary school students, so as to require the local governing body for each school system and public school to adopt a policy providing that students shall be granted not less than two excused absences per school year for attending or participating in a civic or political event; to require the State Board of Education to develop a model policy; to provide a definition; to provide a short title; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to provide for related matters; to provide for a short title; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill, known as the "Student Civic Participation and Encouragement Act," mandates that the governing body of each school system and public school in Georgia must establish a policy allowing students to take at least two excused absences per school year to participate in or attend a "civic or political event," which is defined as activities like strikes, public comments, candidate speeches, political forums, town halls, or protests. Parents or guardians, or students who are 18 or older or emancipated, must notify the school at least one day in advance of such an absence, and documentation will be required. The State Board of Education is tasked with creating a model policy for schools to follow. This legislation will take effect on July 1, 2026, and apply to the 2026-2027 school year.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (5)
Last Action
House Second Readers (on 02/10/2026)
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/72960 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/241864 |
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