5-11-17 assembly passes bill penalizing school absences

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Assembly approved a Republican bill that would require children of parents who receive benefits through state work programs to regularly attend school and would impose a fine if they don’t.  The Assembly passed the bill 62-35 Wednesday. Current law requires children only to be enrolled in school.  Rep. Joe Sanfellipo, the bill’s sponsor, says parents would owe $50 a month for each child with five or more unexcused absences in a semester. He says the goal is to get children counseling that keeps them in school.  Democrats say it further disadvantages children from poor families. Republicans shot down Democratic amendments, including one that would also track the attendance of children who attend voucher schools.  The bill would still need to pass the Senate before it goes to Gov. Walker to become law.