Oregon Parents Could Face $500 Fines as New Bill Targets Student Absences

A public hearing was held yesterday (Wednesday) to discuss Oregon House Bill 2052 which will make it a Class C violation for parents or guardians of students who miss school for eight or more unexcused absences within four weeks.

The violation carries a maximum fine of $500 that will only be implemented as a last resort, according to the sponsor of the bill, Representative Emily McIntire (R-56).

The bill gives school district superintendents the option of issuing fines if children are chronic truants. However, before issuing a citation, school districts must send a written notice to the parents or guardians in their native language.

The letter must explain the reasoning for the citation, remind that school attendance is mandatory, and warn that a citation could be issued for continued non-compliance.

In addition, schools will have to arrange a meeting with the parents and a school official, as well as a meeting with school and community representatives who are supportive of the absentee students.

Senate Bill 817 eliminated truancy fines in 2021. An attempt to reinstate fines was made in 2023 with Senate Bill 48 which proposed fines of up to $2,000 for school attendance violations.

The bill was then amended to create a Task Force on School Attendance to study truancy and chronic absenteeism, eliminating the proposed fines. The amended bill failed to pass.

There are school districts in Oregon that have truancy fines in place. The Umatilla School District’s policy gives families the option of taking part in support groups instead of paying a fine. The school district has experienced an increase in families participating in support groups.

The bill makes exceptions for unexcused absences such as family illnesses or emergencies. Children of active servicemen are also granted exemptions.

House Bill 2052 will come into effect on 1 July 2025, if passed.