Public elementary and secondary schools; compulsory attendance requirements, religious exemption.
What changed between versions
Added a new requirement for the Board of Education to convene a work group consisting of school board representatives, teachers, home instruction parents, religious exemption parents, former exempt students, and representatives from two home education advocacy organizations.
Removed the original text that directly amended §§ 22.1-7, 22.1-205, 22.1-254, and 22.1-254.1, replacing direct statutory changes with a study and recommendation process.
Established a deadline of November 1, 2025, for the work group to submit findings and recommendations to the Senate and House education committees.
Changed the bill's purpose from immediate statutory amendment to initiating a study on how to better ensure children receive adequate education while respecting religious freedom rights.