WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 161

Relating to excused absences from public school for students with a menstrual disorder.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Alma Allen and 6 co-sponsors

Allows Texas students with menstrual disorders to receive excused absences from school when symptoms prevent attendance, with medical or self-documentation accepted.

Referred to Public Education
#education--primary&secondary--admission&attendance(i0227) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #women(i0925)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 161

Legislative bill overview

HB 161 would allow Texas public school students to receive excused absences when they experience severe menstrual symptoms that prevent school attendance. The bill requires schools to accept medical documentation or student attestation of menstrual disorders as valid reasons for absence without penalty.

Why is this important

Severe menstrual disorders like dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia can cause debilitating pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms that legitimately prevent school participation. Currently, students may face unexcused absence penalties despite having a medical condition, which can impact grades, attendance records, and academic standing. This bill recognizes menstrual health as a valid educational accommodation similar to other medical conditions.

Potential points of contention

  • Verification concerns: Questions about how schools verify menstrual disorder claims without invasive medical documentation requirements, and whether self-attestation alone is sufficient
  • Resource implications: Potential administrative burden on schools to process and track menstrual-related absences, and whether guidance documents will be needed
  • Implementation details: Lack of clarity on whether absences must be tied to diagnosed medical conditions or if student-reported symptoms suffice, and how this differs from general sick leave
  • Scope questions: Whether the bill should specify frequency limits or require healthcare provider documentation to prevent misuse

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

Sign in to ask a question.