AB 2616 Summary

• Defines valid excuses for student absences to include reasons specified in Education Code Sections 48205 and 48225.5, plus other reasons at the discretion of school administrators based on individual circumstances.

• Requires first truancy report to result in a meeting between the student and parent/guardian with a school counselor or designee to identify root causes and develop an attendance improvement plan.

• Authorizes peace officers to issue a written warning on the second truancy report, with the record maintained at school for at least two years; permits assignment to afterschool or weekend study programs.

• Establishes that on the third truancy report, the student becomes a habitual truant and may be referred to an attendance review board or truancy mediation program.

• Allows the fourth truancy report to result in juvenile court jurisdiction, with penalties including community service (20-40 hours), fines up to $50, court-approved truancy prevention programs, or suspension/revocation of driving privileges.