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Bill

Bill

S 894

Do No Harm Act

119th Congress Introduced by Tammy Baldwin and 22 co-sponsors

Bill S 894 mandates school districts to create language assistance programs for limited English proficient parents, enhancing their engagement in their children's education.

Introduced in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 894

Summary of Bill S 894

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 894
  • Title: Requires school districts to establish a language assistance program for limited English proficient parents of students
  • Status: PRINT NUMBER 894A
  • Introduced On: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of Bill S 894 is to enhance communication between school districts and parents who have limited proficiency in English. By mandating the establishment of language assistance programs, the bill seeks to ensure that all parents, regardless of their language skills, can effectively engage with their children's education and school activities.

Key Provisions

  • Language Assistance Programs: The bill requires each school district to create and implement a language assistance program specifically designed for parents who are limited English proficient (LEP).
  • Services Offered: These programs may include translation services, bilingual staff, and educational materials in multiple languages to facilitate better understanding and participation in school-related matters.
  • Training for Staff: School districts will be encouraged to provide training for staff members on how to effectively communicate with LEP parents and utilize the language assistance resources available.

Affected Parties

  • School Districts: All public school districts will be required to comply with the provisions of this bill, potentially leading to increased administrative responsibilities and resource allocation.
  • Limited English Proficient Parents: Parents who struggle with English will benefit directly from the support and resources provided, allowing them to be more involved in their children's education.
  • Students: Indirectly, students may benefit from improved parental engagement and support, which can enhance their educational experience.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Education Committee.
  • May 22, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Education Committee, followed by the printing of version 894A.

Related Legislation

  • S 8634, S 1697, S 635, S 463: These are prior-session bills that may have addressed similar issues or themes related to language assistance and education.
  • A 4516: This is a companion bill that may provide additional context or support for the initiatives outlined in S 894.

Conclusion

Bill S 894 represents a significant step towards inclusivity in education by addressing the needs of limited English proficient parents. By requiring school districts to establish language assistance programs, the bill aims to foster better communication and involvement in the educational process, ultimately benefiting students and their families.

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

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