This act allows a school district to waive, for any student who transfers into the state, the statutory requirements that each student complete a course in federal or state constitution or history and satisfactorily complete an exam. The student must provide acceptable documentation that he or she successfully completed a course in ninth through twelfth grade on state, local, and federal governments and the electoral process. This act removes language regarding text selection and the termination of school personnel for willful neglect of this act.

Equipment and educational materials necessary for participation in supplemental educational services programming will not be deemed an incentive for purposes of compliance with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's rules and regulations. In addition, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must not prohibit providers of supplemental and educational services from allowing students to retain equipment used by them upon successful completion of supplemental and educational services.

By July 1, 2009, the Department of Health and Senior Services must establish a school-based influenza vaccination pilot program. Participation in the program will be voluntary for both the students and school districts. When creating the program, the department must use a vaccine that will consume the fewest medical supplies, speed administration by health officials, and contain the least potential adverse events. The department must also take into account the cost and benefits, fiscal impact, and any barriers to implementing such a program. The department must work to increase influenza immunization awareness and participation among parents of children six months to five years of age in child care facilities. This program will expire in six years unless re-authorized by the General Assembly.

This act contains provisions similar to to TAT HB 1678 (2008), SB 1085 (2008) SCS/SB 1169 (2008), and HB 70 (2007).

MICHAEL RUFF