CA AB2176

Office of Youth and Community Restoration must develop an annual report on chronic absenteeism rates in juvenile court schools, working with the State Department of Education and county offices of education.

Office must investigate reasons for absenteeism at juvenile court schools with chronic absenteeism rates of 15% or more, subject to available funding, including examination of staffing, transportation, and punitive policies.

If investigation determines that insufficient staff, transportation, punitive policies, or facility-controlled policies contribute to chronic absenteeism, the office must provide technical assistance to address identified causes.

Ombudsperson must include reports on chronic absenteeism in regular reports to the Legislature, alongside existing data on complaints, investigations, and recommendations for improving the juvenile justice system.

Bill became effective September 22, 2024, and applies to juvenile court schools at juvenile facilities statewide.