H.R. 2738: Ending Punitive, Unfair, School-based Harm that is Overt and Unresponsive to Trauma Act … (119th Congress) Bill Summary

The "Ending Punitive, Unfair, School-based Harm that is Overt and Unresponsive to Trauma Act of 2025" is a legislative proposal focused on improving the disciplinary practices in schools, particularly to support students of color and those impacted by trauma. The main objectives of the bill are summarized below:

Key Objectives

Reduce Exclusionary Discipline Practices: The bill aims to minimize practices that remove students from their learning environments, such as suspensions and expulsions, which can negatively affect their education and well-being.
Enhance Data Collection: It promotes better data collection on discipline practices across schools to identify disparities, particularly those based on race and ethnicity.
Prevent Discrimination: The legislation seeks to establish policies that address and prevent discrimination in school discipline, ensuring fair treatment for all students.
Promote Trauma-informed Support: Schools are encouraged to implement trauma-informed approaches to discipline, which means understanding the impact of trauma on students and responding appropriately to their needs.

Funding Provisions

To support the implementation of these goals, the bill authorizes:

$500 million annually to fund the initiatives aimed at reducing exclusionary discipline and enhancing data collection.
An additional $500 million each year designated for the Office for Civil Rights to oversee and ensure compliance with the established policies and practices.

Targeted Support

The bill specifically targets schools that serve diverse populations and those where students of color may face disproportionate disciplinary actions. It emphasizes creating a supportive educational environment where all students can thrive free from punitive disciplinary actions.

Implementation Timeline

The funding and measures outlined in the bill would begin after its enactment, ensuring that schools can quickly start to make necessary changes in their policies and practices.

Overall Impact

The proposed legislation is designed to foster a more equitable and supportive educational landscape by tackling systemic issues surrounding school discipline that disproportionately affect marginalized students. By promoting trauma-informed support, the bill aims to improve overall educational outcomes and create safer, more inclusive school environments.