The Ending PUSHOUT Act would require annual federal data collection on school suspensions, expulsions, transfers, law enforcement referrals, arrests, and other disciplinary actions. The data would be reported by student groups, with privacy protections. The bill would also create competitive grants for schools and nonprofit organizations to reduce exclusionary discipline and improve school climate. Grant recipients would have to restrict certain suspensions, expulsions, restraints, and other practices, and use funds for training, student supports, and alternatives to suspension. A joint task force would study school discipline and its effects on girls of color and other groups. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
If enacted, students and families could see more public information about school discipline. Schools receiving grants would have to follow limits on certain disciplinary practices and could use grant funds for services such as counseling, mental health support, and restorative practices. The bill does not require every school to receive a grant.
The bill authorizes $500 million per fiscal year for grants and the joint task force, and a separate $500 million per fiscal year for civil rights data collection. These amounts are authorized for each fiscal year after enactment; the bill does not state that the funds have been appropriated.
The bill states that its purposes include reducing discriminatory use of exclusionary discipline, preventing students from losing instructional time, and addressing barriers that can push students out of school.
No publicly available information.