Homeschool co-ops in Illinois would face several new rules meant for larger schools, according to the Illinois State Board of Education. The ‘Homeschool Act’ sponsor says her bill isn’t quite dead yet.

House Bill 2827 would extensively regulate both homeschools and private schools in ways that could seriously violate Illinoisans’ rights, including a primary right established a century ago.

Bill sponsors for a second time amended the ‘Homeschool Act’ as they tried to blunt the heavy criticism of the constitutional, parenting and privacy rights it could trample. Illinois Policy expert testimony showed the changes create more problems with the bill.

The “Homeschool Act” adds taxpayer costs and exposes families’ religion and private information – all in the name of curbing child neglect and abuse. Trouble is, a survey showed state lawmakers are targeting the students where they are least at risk.

As Illinois House members consider regulating homeschools and private schools, Illinois Policy and parents across Illinois have registered their opposition to government intrusion into constitutionally protected rights.

House Bill 2827 would require the collection of personal information – including religious affiliation – of private school and homeschool families all over the state. That violates families’ constitutional rights.