WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 152

An Act ensuring student representation, Aidan's law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Scanlon

Requires Massachusetts public schools to establish formal student representation in school governance to give students structured input on policies affecting education and operations.

1
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 152

Legislative bill overview

HD 152, nicknamed "Aidan's Law," requires Massachusetts public schools to establish formal student representation mechanisms in school governance. The bill aims to give students a structured voice in decision-making processes that affect their education and school environment.

Why is this important

Student input on policies affecting discipline, curriculum, safety, and school operations can improve policy outcomes and increase student engagement in civic processes. This addresses a real governance gap: students experience school policies directly but typically have no formal role in creating them, potentially resulting in policies misaligned with student needs and perspectives.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and burden: Schools must establish new structures, train participants, and allocate staff time, which some districts may struggle to fund
  • Decision-making authority scope: Unclear whether student representatives have advisory-only roles or genuine voting/veto power, affecting the law's actual impact
  • Age and maturity concerns: Opponents may question whether K-12 students have sufficient judgment for certain governance decisions, versus supporters who argue this builds democratic participation skills

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

Sign in to ask a question.