MO HB413

Parents or guardians who permit a child to be habitually absent or tardy from school without valid excuse face fines of $25-$250 per offense, up to 30 days imprisonment, or both

"Habitually absent" or "habitually tardy" is defined as continuing after school authorities' reasonable efforts fail to correct the condition following the fifth unexcused absence or tardy occurrence within any month, or a pattern of five absences per month

Courts must impose probation conditions requiring 40 hours of school or community service activities, parenting classes, or family counseling programs

In custody or visitation situations, only the parent with actual physical custody on the day of absence or tardiness is held responsible

The new penalty provisions automatically sunset five years after the effective date unless reauthorized by the General Assembly