Texas House Bill HB2872

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the number of student absences that constitute a failure to attend school.

Impact

The legislation is designed to hold both students and parents accountable for school attendance, requiring school districts to notify parents about their child's absences and the potential for prosecution. This move is intended to improve student attendance rates, thereby enhancing educational outcomes. The bill clarifies that correlated penalties would apply to parents who do not monitor their child's school attendance adequately.

Summary

House Bill 2872 aims to amend existing statutes regarding student attendance and truancy within the Texas Education Code. This bill stipulates that students aged 12 to 17 are committing an offense if they fail to attend school according to specified absence limits. The amendments revise the thresholds for unexcused absences; specifically, it establishes that a student cannot be absent for five or more days in a semester without facing potential legal repercussions.

Contention

Notably, the bill has created debate over the responsibility assigned to parents and the role of the state in regulating school attendance. Critics argue that the bill places undue pressure on parents, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who may face challenges in ensuring their child's attendance. Supporters counter that the legislation is necessary for combating truancy and promoting educational values, framing it as a measure to ensure children receive the education they are entitled to.