Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of pursuing enlistment in a branch of the armed services of the United States or the Texas National Guard.
Impact
The implementation of HB2796 will require each school district to adopt verification procedures to confirm student activities related to military enlistment. This is intended to foster accountability and ensure that the excused absences are genuinely tied to the pursuits of students interested in enlisting. Notably, the bill protects students from penalties for these absences by ensuring they are counted as days of attendance, thus allowing them the opportunity to catch up on schoolwork missed during their absence.
Summary
House Bill 2796 seeks to amend the Education Code to allow students aged 17 years or older to receive excused absences from public school for purposes related to pursuing enlistment in the United States armed services or the Texas National Guard. This legislative change reflects an effort to support students in making decisions about their future military careers while ensuring their educational progress is not adversely affected by these absences. The bill stipulates a limit to the number of excused absences, allowing up to four days per student during their high school enrollment.
Contention
While this bill may foster opportunities for students interested in military service, it may also introduce contention regarding the balance between educational commitment and military enlistment. Some critics might argue that allowing for multiple excused absences could lead students to prioritize military enlistment over their education, which could be a cause for concern among educators and policymakers who advocate for consistent school attendance. The details around the verification process and how it might be enforced could also lead to disputes at the district level.
Identical
Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of pursuing enlistment in a branch of the armed services of the United States or the Texas National Guard.
Relating to service requirements of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to eligibility of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard or the Texas Air National Guard for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.