Anti-Homeschooling Bill That Seeks to Jail Parents for Non-Compliance Passes Committee Despite 41K Opposing Witness Slips and Large Protests

By Illinois Review

On Wednesday, the Homeschool Act passed the Education Policy Committee 8-4, as hundreds of Illinois families protested at the state capitol – dealing a blow to conservative, hardworking parents who view the legislation as governmental overreach and an abuse of power.

Prior to Wednesday morning’s hearing and vote, a historic number of witness slips had been filed – mostly against the bill. In total, 41,797 opposed the legislation, while 994 supported it.

But the momentum from the witness slips and the hundreds in attendance had zero influence on the Democratic members that control the committee – and all of Springfield, for that matter. And the bill was easily passed.

Now that the bill is out of committee, it’s scheduled for a second reading on the House floor and a short debate. The bill could also be amended during this time. Following a third and final reading, the bill will then go to the full House floor for a vote. If it passes – which it is expected to – it will go to the Senate floor for full passage before the governor signs it and it becomes law.

The bill places burdensome and unnecessary requirements on homeschool parents, requires them to register their student at the nearest public school; and to submit their “education portfolio” including writing samples and other materials to public school administrators for review.

Not surprisingly, the bill would also require homeschool parents to submit proof of their child’s vaccinations.

As Fox News’ Kayleigh McEnany said,

“Parents in Illinois are protesting a bill that would require homeschool parents to REGISTER their children and could potentially require submitting teaching materials to authorities. What if you are a parent that teaches Creation? What if you are a parent that teaches life begins at conception? Do you trust the state of Illinois to use this newfound power responsibly?”

Non-compliance would lead to penalties, including truancies, fines – and even jail time for parents. The date for a second reading on the House floor has not yet been determined.