Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Yes | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Positive |
Relating to public school attendance and promotion requirements for
students diagnosed with or undergoing related treatment for severe
or life-threatening illnesses.
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 699 would require public schools to excuse a student who is unable to attend class due to a serious or life-threatening illness or related treatment if the student or the student’s parent or guardian provides an appropriate certification. Such an excused absence would not be allowed to be considered in determining whether the student has satisfied the attendance requirement which must ordinarily be met for promotion.
The senate substitute removes the prohibition on districts holding students back from advancement solely due to their necessary absences.
Texas Action generally supports HB 699 on the basis of limited government and individual liberty by making reasonable attendance accommodations for students who suffer serious illness.