Bill > H0794

This bill establishes that Idaho public schools (defined as K-12 schools within a school district, including charter schools) cannot grant excused absences for students participating in political protests, working for groups known to engage in political protests, or participating in student walkouts. Any absence for these activities will be considered unexcused and will count towards the school district's average daily attendance, a key metric for school funding. School districts will be required to report the total number of such unexcused absences annually to the Idaho superintendent of public instruction, who will then report this data to the legislature starting in January 2027. The state board of education will create rules to implement these provisions, subject to legislative approval. The bill also includes legislative findings stating that civic education should focus on understanding institutions, that political neutrality is important in schools, and that allowing excused absences for political activities can lead to favoritism and inappropriate pressure on students with differing views.

Education

Education Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0794/