AUGUSTA (AP) — Maine lawmakers are considering a measure this session that would allow local school boards to lower the age at which students are required to attend school from seven years to five.

Sen. Nate Libby’s bill is aimed at improving school attendance. The Lewiston Democrat said that chronically missing school means young students lose out on lessons that will impact their long-term academic success.

Libby said chronic absences among 5- and 6-year-olds have been a big concern for the Lewiston School Department, which supports his proposal. The bill wouldn’t impact students who are home-schooled or attend private school.

The Education and Cultural Affairs Committee held a public hearing on the bill last week. They’re expected to hold a work session in coming weeks.