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HD 2054

An Act to reduce out-of-school suspensions

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Josh Tarsky

Massachusetts bill to limit out-of-school student suspensions and shift toward alternative discipline approaches to improve educational equity and outcomes.

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Bill Summary · HD 2054

Legislative bill overview

HD 2054 seeks to reduce out-of-school suspensions in Massachusetts schools by limiting when and how long students can be removed from classroom instruction. The bill aims to keep students engaged in learning while addressing discipline issues through alternative approaches. It reflects growing concern that suspensions disproportionately harm vulnerable student populations and disrupt educational continuity.

Why is this important

Out-of-school suspensions have documented negative effects on academic achievement, graduation rates, and long-term outcomes, particularly for students of color and those with disabilities. Reducing suspensions could improve equity in school discipline while keeping students in classrooms where they can learn. However, this also raises questions about maintaining school safety and order while implementing alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Schools may lack resources for alternative interventions (restorative justice programs, counseling, in-school alternatives), potentially forcing compliance without adequate support
  • Safety concerns: Critics may argue that limiting suspensions could compromise school safety or enable disruptive behavior to continue without meaningful consequences
  • Defining scope: The bill's specific restrictions (length limits, offense categories, exemptions) will determine whether it's viewed as balanced or overly constraining administrators' authority

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

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