Alabama Senate Bill SB110

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23

Caption

Relating to K-12 public education; to amend Section 16-1-14, Code of Alabama 1975; to provide legislative findings; to provide a uniform system of procedural due process protections for students facing suspension or expulsion for violating the student code of conduct or state law; and to require the State Board of Education to adopt rules to implement this act.

Impact

If enacted, SB110 would amend existing state law (Section 16-1-14 of the Code of Alabama) to provide specific procedural guidelines for disciplinary actions, including requirements for formal hearings before students can be suspended or expelled. The bill stipulates that students, their guardians, and representatives must be informed and allowed to participate in the disciplinary hearings, which must occur within a set time frame of initial suspension. This could significantly alter how local educational institutions manage disciplinary actions, as they would now have to adhere to the state's guidelines instead of creating their own policies, potentially reducing disparities in how discipline is administered.

Summary

SB110 aims to reform disciplinary procedures in K-12 public education in Alabama by establishing a uniform statewide system of procedural due process protections for students facing suspension or expulsion. Currently, local boards of education operate independently, leading to significant variability in disciplinary processes across the state. The bill outlines the necessity of these due process protections, as well as legislative findings that address the current effectiveness and implications of high suspension rates in Alabama schools. It highlights the negative impact of exclusionary disciplinary practices on all students, not just those facing discipline, and calls for a more structured approach to student conduct violations.

Contention

Opponents of SB110 might argue that while the intent to create a fair and systematic approach is commendable, it may infringe upon local control that allows school boards to address specific community issues. Proponents support the bill, arguing that it is essential to reduce the effects of zero-tolerance policies that often lead to unintended consequences like increased dropout rates and entry into the juvenile justice system. Some may contend that a newly enforced system could take away flexibility in handling incidents on a case-by-case basis, while supporters claim that a uniform process is critical for ensuring justice and equity in student discipline across Alabama.