WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 5259

AN ACT CONCERNING THE EDUCATION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Larry Butler and 16 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill to improve school enrollment, attendance, and support services for homeless children and youth experiencing housing instability.

SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
#boardsofeducation #education #homelessyouth
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5259

Legislative bill overview

HB 5259 addresses educational access and support for homeless children and youth in Connecticut. The bill appears designed to improve enrollment, attendance, and academic outcomes for students experiencing housing instability by establishing or clarifying protections and services within the education system.

Why is this important

Homeless students face significant barriers to education including irregular attendance, lack of stable addresses for enrollment, limited access to school supplies, and difficulty completing homework. Research shows that educational continuity and support services directly correlate with higher graduation rates and better long-term outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Whether the bill provides adequate state or local funding to implement new services, or if it creates unfunded mandates on school districts
  • Definition and identification: How "homeless" is defined and which youth qualify, potentially affecting eligibility for services and the bill's scope
  • Coordination between agencies: Whether housing authorities, schools, and social services have clear responsibilities and funding to collaborate, or if unclear jurisdictions create implementation gaps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.