IL SB2138

Prohibits punitive action (suspensions, expulsions, court action) against truant minors unless appropriate and available supportive services have been provided; supportive services must be trauma-informed and tailored to individual student needs.

Students cannot be removed from attendance rolls until accumulating 15 consecutive days of unexcused absences, and only after exhausting available supportive services or after the school district cannot locate the student following specific procedures (phone calls, certified mail letter, 7-day waiting period).

Requires school districts to send a certified mail letter within 24 hours of removing a student from attendance rolls explaining their right to re-enrollment and eligibility for immediate re-enrollment if experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

Mandates meetings with homeless students and their families to address barriers to attendance, and meetings with students with documented disabilities to review placement and services before removal or referral to municipalities.

Prohibits school districts from referring truant students to local entities for fines or fees; parents/guardians may only be referred after the school district has offered all appropriate supportive services.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.