December 23, 2011

Pursuant to Elections Code Section 9005, we have reviewed the proposed initiative
(A.G. File 11‑0075) regarding the excusal of students from certain instruction.

Background

Current law allows students to be excused from health instruction if the instruction conflicts with the religious training and beliefs of a student or the student's parent or guardian. Students may only be excused from the specific part of the instruction that conflicts with the religious training and beliefs of the student or the student's parent or guardian. A written request of the parent or guardian is necessary for the student to be excused from the instruction.

Proposal

This measure changes state law to allow students also to be excused from instruction in social science and family life if the instruction conflicts with the religious training and beliefs of the student or the student's parent or guardian.

Fiscal Effect

The measure would have a minor fiscal effect on school districts. Students excused from certain instruction likely would be provided with no-cost or low-cost alternative activities, such as undertaking independent work in the library, participating in another existing class, or receiving an approved absence for the relevant class period.

Summary of Fiscal Effect:

• Minor school district costs to accommodate students who request to be excluded from certain instruction.