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MA S373
Bill
AI Summary
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Prohibits suspension and expulsion of students in public prekindergarten through 3rd grade for discipline infractions, with the ban expanding to 4th grade after 1 year and 5th grade after 2 years
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Exempts students charged with violations under sections 37H (weapons, drugs, assaults on staff) or 37H½ (felony charges) from the suspension/expulsion ban
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Requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide guidance and support to school districts on alternatives to suspension, including mediation, conflict resolution, restorative justice, and collaborative problem solving
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Amends Chapter 71, Section 37H¾ of the Massachusetts General Laws governing student discipline
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Cites COVID-19 learning loss and disparities in school discipline leading to unequal educational outcomes as rationale for the legislation
Legislative Description
Enhancing learning in the early school years through a ban on school exclusion in pre-kindergarten through 3rd grade
Last Action
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
9/22/2025