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Bill

Bill

A 5373

Relates to protecting students, faculty, and staff from immigration enforcement while attending or participating in school activities

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Didi Barrett and 25 co-sponsors

Bill A 5373 protects students, faculty, and staff from immigration enforcement in schools, ensuring a safe environment for all, regardless of immigration status.

PRINT NUMBER 5373A
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Bill Summary · A 5373

Summary of Bill A 5373

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5373
  • Title: Relates to protecting students, faculty, and staff from immigration enforcement while attending or participating in school activities
  • Status: PRINT NUMBER 5373A
  • Introduced: February 13, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5373 aims to safeguard students, faculty, and staff in educational institutions from immigration enforcement actions during school activities. The intent is to create a safe and supportive environment for all individuals involved in the educational process, regardless of their immigration status.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions designed to protect the rights of students and educational personnel:

  • Prohibition of Immigration Enforcement: The bill prohibits immigration enforcement agencies from conducting operations on school grounds or during school-sponsored events without prior notification to school authorities.

  • Notification Requirements: Schools must establish protocols to notify students and staff of their rights regarding immigration enforcement and provide resources for legal assistance.

  • Training for Staff: Educational institutions are required to provide training for faculty and staff on how to respond to immigration enforcement inquiries and protect the rights of students.

  • Confidentiality Protections: The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of student information, preventing schools from disclosing immigration status unless required by law.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, who may fear deportation or legal repercussions while attending school.

  • Faculty and Staff: Teachers and school staff will also be protected under this legislation, ensuring they can perform their duties without the threat of immigration enforcement.

  • Educational Institutions: Schools and districts will need to adapt their policies and training programs to comply with the new requirements set forth in the bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:

    • February 13, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Education Committee.
    • June 9, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Education Committee, with the updated version printed as 5373A.
  • Related Bills: This bill has a companion bill, S 4735, which addresses similar issues in the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill A 5373 represents a significant step towards ensuring that educational environments remain safe and inclusive for all individuals, irrespective of their immigration status. By implementing protective measures against immigration enforcement, the bill seeks to foster a climate of trust and support within schools, allowing students and staff to engage fully in educational activities without fear.

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

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