Requires school districts to permit students five excused absences for mental or behavioral health reasons.

This bill (A561) allows New Jersey public school students to have up to five excused absences per school year for mental or behavioral health needs. These absences will not count toward chronic absenteeism (defined as missing 10% of school days) or affect perfect attendance records. Schools must provide opportunities for students to make up missed work and may require non-medical documentation to verify the need. After two such absences, schools may refer students to support staff.