Legislative Update – HB 1367 Passed, Addressing Chronic Absenteeism to Improve Education Outcomes

Earlier today, the House Education Administration Subcommittee passed Florida Chamber-backed HB 1367, sponsored by Representative Erika Booth, which addresses chronic student absenteeism. This important legislation, paired with SB 938 by Senator Stan McClain, helps ensure students are in the classroom, which benefits Florida’s future workforce.

According to the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Math Matters: Bridging Gaps for Florida’s Future Workforce report, when more students are chronically absent, it directly leads to a decrease in math achievement. A 10-percentage point increase in chronic absenteeism is associated with a 6.8 percent decrease in math proficiency. Poor student outcomes impact Florida’s future talent pipeline as math skill gaps can be a barrier for students pursuing postsecondary education and career options.

By addressing absenteeism, HB 1367 supports businesses by ensuring the next generation is prepared to meet future workforce demands.