State Representative Henry “Wayne” Howard (D-Augusta) announced that Governor Nathan Deal recently signed House Bill 740, legislation Rep. Howard co-sponsored that will require local school systems to conduct proper assessments prior to expelling or suspending students for five or more days.

“I was honored to co-sponsor HB 740, and I’m thrilled that Gov. Deal signed this critical measure for the good of Georgia’s students into law,” said Rep. Howard. “HB 740 is a bi-partisan bill that will ensure our state’s children receive the proper support needed to thrive. I’d like to thank my colleagues in the Georgia General Assembly for their overwhelming support of HB 740, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts this measure will have on Georgia’s students.”

“HB 740 is a turning point for many students because it will help schools identify underlying issues that, once addressed, can put these kids on the path to future success,” said Garry McGiboney, Deputy Superintendent of Policy and External Affairs for the Georgia Department of Education. “Rep. Howard championed this legislation, and passage of the bill is due in large part to his unwavering efforts to support children.”

HB 740 will prohibit schools from expelling or suspending students in public preschool through third grade for five or more days per school year without first providing the student with a multi-tiered system of supports, such as Response to Intervention, a preexisting program that identifies and addresses students’ academic and behavioral needs to help them succeed in the classroom.