SRC-JJJ H.B. 217 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 217
76R1031 KKA-DBy: Hochberg (Ellis)
Education
5/7/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Current law requires a school district to excuse a student from attending
school for the purpose of observing religious holy days if, before the
absence, the student's parent or legal guardian submits a written request
for an excused absence.  H.B. 217 would delete the provision requiring the
written request for an excused absence in order to observe a religious holy
day.  

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 217 deletes the provision requiring the written request
for an excused absence in order to observe a religious holy day. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 25.087(b), Education Code, to delete text
regarding the need for a parent or legal guardian's written request prior
to a student's absence for the purpose of observing a religious holy day. 

SECTION 2.  Provides that this Act applies beginning with the 1999-2000
school year. 

SECTION 3.  Emergency clause.
            Effective date: upon passage.