Massachusetts S398: An Act to promote student college and career success and civic engagement

What the bill says

From the introduced text, February 27, 2025:

SECTION 1. Section 1D of chapter 69 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition, is hereby amended by striking out subsection (i) and inserting in place thereof the following section:- (i) The “competency determination” shall be based on the academic standards and curriculum frameworks for high school education in the areas of English, mathematics, science and technology, history and social science, foreign languages, and arts, and shall represent a determination that a particular student has demonstrated mastery of a common core of skills, competencies and knowledge in these areas, as measured by the requirements set out in section 38. Satisfaction of the requirements of the competency determination shall be a condition for high school graduation. SECTION 2. Chapter 69 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 37 the following section:- Section 38. High School Education Program of Study (a) The department, with approval from the board and with advice and guidance from the advisory council established pursuant to subsection (d), shall adopt a program of study intended to align high school coursework with college and career expectations and promote civic engagement. (b) The department shall determine, with advice and guidance from the advisory council established pursuant to subsection (d), the requirements and implementation of the program of study in all schools and …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Jason Lewis (D, Fifth Middlesex) · primary sponsor
• Joanne Comerford (D, Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester)
• Rebecca Rausch (D, Norfolk, Worcester and Middlesex)
• James Eldridge (D, Middlesex and Worcester)

Latest actions

1. July 30, 2026: Accompanied a study order, see S3238
2. July 2, 2026: Reporting date extended to Friday July 31, 2026
3. October 29, 2025: Hearing scheduled for 11/12/2025 from 11:00 AM-05:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium
4. February 27, 2025: House concurred
5. February 27, 2025: Referred to the committee on Education

Common questions

What is S398?

S398 is a bill in the Massachusetts Legislature (194th General Court): An Act to promote student college and career success and civic engagement.

What is the status of S398?

Failed as of July 30, 2026. Latest action: Accompanied a study order, see S3238 (July 30, 2026).

Who sponsored S398?

Jason Lewis (D, Fifth Middlesex), with 3 co-sponsors.

Where is the official record for S398?

On the Massachusetts Legislature website: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S398