North Dakota House Bill HB1439

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25

Caption

The suspension and expulsion of kindergarten through grade twelve students.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will fundamentally reshape how disciplinary actions are managed within North Dakota's schools. It outlines specific conditions under which a student may be suspended or expelled, such as insubordination or violations of weapons policies. The duration of a suspension may be as long as ten to twenty days, depending on the circumstances, while expulsions could last up to twelve months. These changes aim to standardize disciplinary procedures and ensure they are handled fairly and transparently.

Summary

House Bill 1439 seeks to amend existing regulations concerning the suspension and expulsion of students from kindergarten through grade twelve in North Dakota. The bill mandates that school boards adopt clear rules for student suspension and expulsion, ensuring that due process is observed through procedural hearings. Parents or representatives will be granted the opportunity to participate in expulsion hearings, reinforcing the importance of parental involvement in disciplinary matters.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 1439 may revolve around the balance between maintaining order within the schools and ensuring students' rights are protected. While supporters argue that implementing clear guidelines will help create a safe and conducive learning environment, critics may raise concerns about the implications of extended suspensions or expulsions on students' educational opportunities. Additionally, the adequacy of procedural protections and the extent of parental involvement in these hearings could be points of contention among legislators and stakeholders.