MS SB2633

Removes vacation and family travel absences from the list of valid excuses for school absences, eliminating the previous provision that allowed absences for educational travel opportunities with superintendent approval.

Maintains other valid excuses for temporary nonattendance including illness, authorized school activities, death or serious illness in immediate family, medical/dental appointments, court proceedings, religious observances, and 4-H or FFA events.

Retains the definition of "unlawful absence" as any absence without valid excuse, with absences exceeding 37% of the instructional day counted as a full day absence.

Establishes that 12 unlawful absences during a school year creates a prima facie case for prosecution of parents or guardians under neglect statutes.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.