Indiana House Passes Bill to Grant Excused Absences for FFA and 4-H Students

Indiana lawmakers have taken a significant step to support students participating in Future Farmers of Indiana lawmakers have taken a significant step to support students participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H. The Indiana House of Representatives passed House Bill 1660, authored by State Rep. Beau Baird, ensuring that students involved in these programs can receive excused absences for educational events without penalty.

The bill allows students to take up to six excused absences per school year to attend approved FFA and 4-H events, provided they maintain good academic standing.

In a statement to Think American News, Baird emphasized the significance of this legislation beyond just excused absences:

“House Bill 1660 is about recognizing that 4-H and FFA are not just extracurriculars—they are co-curricular programs that teach leadership, responsibility, and real-world skills far beyond the classroom,” Baird said. “The overwhelming support for this bill, both in the legislature and from the community, shows just how valuable these experiences are in shaping Indiana’s future leaders. Watching these young advocates testify with such passion and poise was truly inspiring. I’m proud that we’ve provided a clear pathway for students to participate in these life-changing opportunities without fear of academic repercussions.”

Baird previously stated, “House Bill 1660 is about supporting the next generation of leaders in Indiana. 4-H and FFA provide students with invaluable experiences that build leadership, responsibility, and real-world skills. By ensuring they can participate in these programs without penalty, we’re investing in their growth and the future of our state.”

The bill, which passed unanimously out of the House Education Committee before clearing the full House, now moves to the Indiana Senate for further consideration.

House Bill 1660 has gained bipartisan support from lawmakers dedicated to fostering youth leadership and hands-on learning experiences. The legislation was co-authored by Rep. J.D. Prescott, Rep. Becky Cash, and Rep. Kendell Culp, and is sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Brian Buchanan and Sen. Jean Leising.

The bill stipulates that:

• Indiana school districts must authorize excused absences for students attending select FFA and
  4-H events.
• Students cannot exceed six excused absences per academic year for these activities.
• To qualify, students must remain in good academic standing.

FFA and 4-H play a crucial role in developing leadership, agricultural knowledge, and civic engagement among young Hoosiers. Through hands-on experiences in farming, public speaking, business, and community service, students gain valuable life skills that contribute to Indiana’s economy and workforce.

By passing this bill, Indiana lawmakers are reinforcing their commitment to supporting youth development and ensuring students are not forced to choose between their education and career-building opportunities.

House Bill 1660 now awaits further action in the Indiana Senate. If passed and signed into law, the measure will take effect in the upcoming school year, providing greater flexibility and support for students balancing academics and extracurricular growth.