ATLANTA (AP) — The Georgia House of Representatives has approved a bill letting thousands of Georgians who did not pass high school graduation tests petition local officials for diplomas.
It now goes to the Senate for consideration. Students have not taken the tests since the 2013 school year.
Former students who did not pass the graduation test can request a waiver from the State Board of Education. But officials say the board can only hear 300 cases a year.
The bill would shift that responsibility to local school boards. Supporters say that would give about 8,000 people an easier path to their diploma.
Sponsor Rep. Brooks Coleman of Duluth says the state should not punish people who otherwise did well for an eliminated test.
State Superintendent Richard Woods has backed the bill.
