Truancy Reform Act

HB 5375, the Truancy Reform Act, changes West Virginia's truancy laws to prioritize support over punishment. It removes criminal penalties for students aged 18 or older who miss school, replaces fines with school attendance requirements for first offenses, and creates a pretrial diversion program for parents/guardians of children under 18. This allows families to avoid conviction by addressing truancy causes within 60 days, with courts able to delay sentences and refer families to Department of Human Services for home-based support. The bill also modifies penalties for repeat offenses, including conditional school enrollment after a third violation for 18+ students. It directly affects parents, guardians, custodians, and students aged 18+ in truancy cases.