H.R.2738 - Ending Punitive, Unfair, School-based Harm that is Overt and Unresponsive to Trauma Act of 2025; Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2738, also known as the "Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2025," aims to reduce exclusionary discipline practices in schools. The bill seeks to strengthen data collection on disciplinary actions, eliminate discriminatory practices, and prevent the criminalization of students, particularly girls of color. It also establishes grant programs and a joint task force to address these issues.
Expected Effects
The bill's implementation would likely lead to changes in school discipline policies and practices nationwide. Schools may shift towards more restorative and trauma-informed approaches. Increased data collection and reporting could also highlight disparities and inform interventions.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced discriminatory discipline practices, leading to more equitable outcomes for students of color, students with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ students.
- Increased use of restorative practices and trauma-informed services, creating safer and more supportive school environments.
- Improved data collection and transparency regarding disciplinary actions, allowing for better monitoring and accountability.
- Enhanced professional development for school officials in culturally sustaining practices and bias awareness.
- Prevention of unnecessary loss of instructional time due to exclusionary discipline.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden on schools due to enhanced data collection and reporting requirements.
- Possible resistance from some school officials or communities who prefer traditional disciplinary approaches.
- Risk of unintended consequences if alternative discipline strategies are not implemented effectively.
- Concerns about the cost of implementing new programs and training, especially for under-resourced schools.
- Potential for subjective interpretation of terms like "insubordination" or "willful defiance," leading to inconsistent application of the law.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment by seeking to eliminate discriminatory discipline practices. It also promotes the general welfare, as mentioned in the Preamble, by aiming to create safer and more equitable learning environments. The emphasis on data collection and transparency is consistent with principles of due process and accountability.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).