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Senate committee splits over raising truancy penalties; judges and superintendents back stronger enforcement
Summary
A Senate substitute would increase enforcement options for chronic unexcused absences by routing students with 10 or more unexcused absences in six months to truancy court and allowing escalation to contempt and potential class‑C penalties where remedial orders are violated.
Senate Bill 19 25 drew split testimony as judges, superintendents and county officials urged the Senate Education Committee to restore enforcement options for chronic unexcused absences while advocates for vulnerable youth asked for guardrails and supports.
The substitute before the committee would require school districts to refer students with 10 or more unexcused absences in a six‑month period to truancy court and give judges authority to issue remedial orders; if students or parents fail to comply, the substitute allows escalation to contempt and potential class‑C criminal proceedings in appropriate cases. The bill keeps truant conduct civil to start…
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