Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas of Kankakee is actively opposing a new legislative proposal, HB 2827, known as the "Homeschool Act." The bill was discussed in committee and passed despite strong opposition from home and private school families. The proposed legislation requires non-public schools to register annually with the Illinois State Board of Education and mandates that homeschools complete a Homeschool Declaration Form. Failure to comply could result in fines or imprisonment. Additionally, administrators would need to provide personal information about themselves and their students to authorities.

"Illinois lawmakers should be empowering parents to make the best educational decisions for their children, not adding more hurdles and regulation," stated Rep. Haas. She criticized the bill as an unnecessary measure introduced by the majority party, arguing it distracts from addressing other pressing issues in Illinois.

Public opposition has been significant, with over 48,000 residents filing witness slips against HB 2827. Many also gathered at the State Capitol to voice their concerns and share positive homeschooling experiences.

"I am also incredibly concerned with the way the voices of Illinoisans were silenced," Haas remarked. She highlighted that despite thousands expressing opposition through witness slips, only four opponents were allowed to testify during the hearing. Haas condemned this limitation on public testimony and reiterated her commitment to advocating for parental choice in education.

For further details on HB 2827 or Representative Haas's initiatives, interested parties are directed to visit The Caucus Blog or RepHaas.com.