A controversial bill concerning homeschooling in Illinois has recently passed out of the Education Policy Committee and is set to go before the state House for a vote, potentially as early as next week. This legislation, known as House Bill 2827 or the “Homeschool Act,” garnered significant opposition, with numerous homeschooling families gathering at the state Capitol to voice their concerns.

Details of House Bill 2827

The bill was approved by an 8-4 vote in committee and, if it clears the House, will move to the Senate before being presented to Governor J.B. Pritzker for final approval. Notably, Governor Pritzker has not disclosed his stance on this bill despite several inquiries.

If enacted, the Homeschool Act would impose specific requirements on parents wishing to homeschool their children. Non-compliance could result in a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a potential penalty of up to 30 days in jail.

Concerns Raised by Opponents

Opponents of the bill argue it represents an undue government intrusion into family education. Will Estrada, a senior counsel with the Homeschool Legal Defense Association, expressed alarm over the vague language in the bill, suggesting it allows for bureaucrats to set additional regulations in the future. Estrada remarked, “This bill is a solution in search of a problem,” emphasizing the successful academic track record of homeschoolers.

Many families, like Michelle Langworthy, have taken to protesting, citing that the bill infringes on parental rights. Langworthy stated, “There’s a part of the bill that says the school will be the one that will get to determine where the child’s records go that the parent no longer has that right,” which she sees as an overreach. She further added, “We have a different value system. We are not ownership of the state.”

Implications for Homeschooling Families

Should the law pass, it would require parents to submit a “Homeschool Declaration Form” to their nearest public school, effectively registering their child within the public education system. Children not registered under this law would be considered truant, facing potential penalties.

Additionally, the State Board of Education would be responsible for creating regulations concerning the educational portfolio that homeschooling families must compile. This portfolio would need to provide evidence that their educational approaches meet the standards comparable to public schooling, as per the Illinois School Code.

Furthermore, families whose children participate in public school activities would need to provide proof of immunizations or a signed exemption certificate, introducing additional requirements for participation.

Response from the Homeschooling Community

Many homeschooling advocates feel that this bill represents a regression in homeschooling rights. Luke Schurter, another parent at the protest, articulated a common concern, stating that the bill threatens to “crack open the door” to future requirements that could dictate educational content and parental oversight.

With significant backlash from families across Illinois, the legislative process for House Bill 2827 will continue to attract attention and debate in the coming days.