CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 350Introduced by Senator AshbyFebruary 08, 2023 An act to amend Section 48205 of the Education Code, relating to pupil attendance.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 350, as introduced, Ashby. Pupil attendance: excused absences.Existing law, notwithstanding the requirement that each person between 6 and 18 years of age who is not otherwise exempted is subject to compulsory full-time education, requires a pupil to be excused from school for specified types of absences, including, among others, if the absence is for the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of the pupils immediate family, provided that the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in the state and not more than 3 days if the service is conducted outside the state.This bill would instead require a pupil to be excused from school for not more than 5 days for the purpose of attending the funeral service or grieving the death of the pupils immediate family member, as provided. The bill would also include as another type of required excused absence an absence that is for the purpose of obtaining victim services or participating in safety planning as it relates to violence or abuse, as specified. To the extent that this bill would impose additional duties on local educational entities, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 48205 of the Education Code is amended to read:48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument.SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 350Introduced by Senator AshbyFebruary 08, 2023 An act to amend Section 48205 of the Education Code, relating to pupil attendance.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 350, as introduced, Ashby. Pupil attendance: excused absences.Existing law, notwithstanding the requirement that each person between 6 and 18 years of age who is not otherwise exempted is subject to compulsory full-time education, requires a pupil to be excused from school for specified types of absences, including, among others, if the absence is for the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of the pupils immediate family, provided that the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in the state and not more than 3 days if the service is conducted outside the state.This bill would instead require a pupil to be excused from school for not more than 5 days for the purpose of attending the funeral service or grieving the death of the pupils immediate family member, as provided. The bill would also include as another type of required excused absence an absence that is for the purpose of obtaining victim services or participating in safety planning as it relates to violence or abuse, as specified. To the extent that this bill would impose additional duties on local educational entities, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 350 Introduced by Senator AshbyFebruary 08, 2023 Introduced by Senator Ashby February 08, 2023 An act to amend Section 48205 of the Education Code, relating to pupil attendance. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SB 350, as introduced, Ashby. Pupil attendance: excused absences. Existing law, notwithstanding the requirement that each person between 6 and 18 years of age who is not otherwise exempted is subject to compulsory full-time education, requires a pupil to be excused from school for specified types of absences, including, among others, if the absence is for the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of the pupils immediate family, provided that the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in the state and not more than 3 days if the service is conducted outside the state.This bill would instead require a pupil to be excused from school for not more than 5 days for the purpose of attending the funeral service or grieving the death of the pupils immediate family member, as provided. The bill would also include as another type of required excused absence an absence that is for the purpose of obtaining victim services or participating in safety planning as it relates to violence or abuse, as specified. To the extent that this bill would impose additional duties on local educational entities, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above. Existing law, notwithstanding the requirement that each person between 6 and 18 years of age who is not otherwise exempted is subject to compulsory full-time education, requires a pupil to be excused from school for specified types of absences, including, among others, if the absence is for the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of the pupils immediate family, provided that the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in the state and not more than 3 days if the service is conducted outside the state. This bill would instead require a pupil to be excused from school for not more than 5 days for the purpose of attending the funeral service or grieving the death of the pupils immediate family member, as provided. The bill would also include as another type of required excused absence an absence that is for the purpose of obtaining victim services or participating in safety planning as it relates to violence or abuse, as specified. To the extent that this bill would impose additional duties on local educational entities, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above. ## Digest Key ## Bill Text The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 48205 of the Education Code is amended to read:48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument.SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The people of the State of California do enact as follows: ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows: SECTION 1. Section 48205 of the Education Code is amended to read:48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument. SECTION 1. Section 48205 of the Education Code is amended to read: ### SECTION 1. 48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument. 48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument. 48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:(1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health.(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days.(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.(10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community:(A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency.(B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.(13)(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.(b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.(c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester.(d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.(2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.(3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.(4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.(5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following:(A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse.(B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.(C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument. 48205. (a) Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is: (1) Due to the pupils illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupils mental or behavioral health. (2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer. (3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered. (4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupils immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupils parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupils immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California. five days. (5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law. (6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor. (7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupils religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupils absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district. (8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code. (9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupils immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district. (10) For the purpose of attending the pupils naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen. (11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event. (12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence. (B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year. (ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260. (13) For either of the following purposes if the pupil is a victim or witness to an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, school, or in the community, or if the pupil has an immediate family member who is a victim of an act of actual or attempted violence or abuse at home, in school, or in the community: (A) To obtain services from a victim services organization or agency. (B) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or pupils immediate family member from future violence or abuse, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation. (13) (14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260. (b) A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence. (c) For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed four hours per semester. (d) Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments. (e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (1) A civic or political event includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls. (2) Cultural means relating to the habits, practices, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people. (3) Immediate family means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil. (4) Victim services organization or agency has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code. (5) Violence or abuse includes, but is not limited to, all of the following: (A) Stalking, domestic violence, sexual violence, kidnapping, child abuse, human trafficking, or elder abuse. (B) An act of force committed by a person that causes physical injury to another. An act of force does not include an act involving the operation of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or water vehicle that results in injury, unless the act was intentionally inflicted or caused by a person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. (C) A reasonably perceived or actual threat of physical injury made by a person against another, including, but not limited to, the exhibition, drawing, brandishing, or use of a firearm, deadly weapon, or instrument. SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. ### SEC. 2.