Panel recommends restorative-discipline bill after debate over scope and documentation (HB 298)
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Summary
HB 298 would standardize consideration of evidence-based restorative practices before exclusionary discipline and require documentation when schools opt for exclusion; supporters said the bill balances safety and accountability while some members expressed operational concerns; the subcommittee recommended reporting (3–2–1).
Delegate McQuinn presented House Bill 298, which would standardize the Department of Education’s model guidance for positive, preventive codes of conduct and require consideration of evidence-based restorative disciplinary practices before imposing suspension, expulsion, or other exclusionary measures. The substitute includes an implementation timeline with VDOE guidance and de-identified reporting and requires schools to document their rationale if they consider restorative practices but still impose exclusionary discipline.
Supporters including New Virginia Majority, the Virginia Education Association and disability advocates testified that restorative practices can reduce exclusionary discipline and improve school climate. Committee members probed the meaning of "consider" and raised concerns that added documentation requirements might burden already stretched administrators and counselors; counsel explained the substitute leaves parameters and definitions to VDOE model guidance.
After questions and a substitute adoption, the subcommittee voted in favor of recommending the bill with a tally the chair recorded as 3 yes, 2 no and 1 abstention. Members said the substitute’s phased implementation and reporting elements were intended to balance flexibility and accountability.
