CONCERNING EXCUSED ABSENCES FOR CHILDREN OF FALLEN SERVICE MEMBERS AND CHILDREN OF FALLEN FIRST RESPONDERS.

House Bill 1986 allows public school students who are children of fallen service members or first responders to receive excused absences. These absences are permitted for mental health concerns or to attend events offered by organizations supporting families of fallen service members or first responders, or those providing grief and resiliency support. To qualify, a parent or guardian must provide written documentation, and the student must have good academic standing and a prior record of good attendance, and complete any missed classwork. However, such absences are not allowed during standardized testing days.