Homeschoolers threatened by pending bill

The California Senate is considering a bill that could greatly intimidate homeschoolers and other parents in California. SB 950, which is sponsored by Senator Alarcon, would add “habitual truancy” to the definition of child abuse in Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300.

This provision enables a child to be immediately taken from their family and put into the juvenile court system with no prior opportunity for parents to make their case. Under present law, truancy is addressed through the school district, where parents are entitled to make a defense before any action is taken against the child or family.

Those who would potentially lose their children as a result of this bill would include homeschoolers wrongfully accused of truancy or any child who has up to five unexcused absences. Such unexcused absences usually include family vacations outside scheduled school vacation days.

The Pacific Justice Institute is a non-profit 501(c)(3) legal defense organization specializing in the defense of religious freedom, parental rights, and other civil liberties. Located near Sacramento, it can be contacted by phone (916) 857-6900 or visit www.pacificjustice.org