AN ACT relating to status offenses.

Create new sections of KRS Chapter 610 to establish a pilot program to be known as the Supporting Opportunities for Accountability and Restoration Program for children who are truant; require the pilot program to be established in no less than 10 public school districts; establish the responsive interventions to support and empower teams; establish criteria for participation and procedure for the program; create a new section of KRS Chapter 159 to establish the duties of…

Children and Minors Courts Criminal Procedure Education, Elementary and Secondary Reports Mandated Local Mandate

In effect since July 15, 2026

Acts from the 2026 Regular Session that don't carry an emergency clause or set their own effective date took effect 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).

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This bill creates a pilot program called the SOAR Program in at least 10 Kentucky school districts to address student truancy through support and intervention rather than punishment. It sets up teams to work with children and their families, requires the use of screening tools to identify family needs, and establishes family diversion plans as an alternative to court involvement. It also prohibits placing children under 16 who are classified as status offenders in secure detention facilities for truancy-related issues. Who it may affect: students with attendance problems, their parents and families, and school districts participating in the pilot program.

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