Permits excused absences for students who attend civic events.

This bill allows public school students in grades 6-12 to have one excused absence per school year to attend a civic event, such as a community meeting about environmental issues or public safety. The absence won’t appear on the student’s attendance record, and parents must provide at least five days’ notice with documentation proving the event meets the bill’s definition of a civic event (sponsored by government, community, or local nonprofits addressing public concerns). The state education commissioner will create rules, including a list of mandatory civic events requiring excused absences, while school districts may grant additional absences beyond the one allowed. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.