The Senate Education Committee has approved a bill that would adjust the date upon which children become eligible for certain school programs and school attendance.
The bill, SB 186, would change the kindergarten age attainment requirement from age five prior to September 1, to age five prior to July 1; the early childhood education program age attainment date requirement from age four prior to September 1, to age four prior to July 1; and the age for which compulsory attendance begins to those who attain age six by July 1, of each year.
The committee substitute would enact the age requirements starting with the 2019-2020 school year.
Senator John Unger (D-Berkeley) said he was thankful to the chairman for putting the bill on the agenda, since he has seen how the age gaps in enrolling children into school have been an “ongoing problem” for many parents in the state.
No fiscal note was provided with the bill, as counsel believed there would not be much of a financial effect past the first few years of enaction.
The bill will be referred to Senate Finance once reported to the floor.
