Stop HB 2827: End the Attack on Homeschool Freedom
HB 2827 is a reckless and oppressive measure that threatens to dismantle the freedoms of homeschool families across Illinois
The Homeschool Act (HB2827) would require homeschool families to submit a Homeschool Declaration Form to the principal of their local public school or to their school district.
Homeschool administrators, often parents, that fail to submit the appropriate paperwork will be considered truant and subject to investigation, DCFS involvement, and legal penalties including possible criminal charges.
HB2827 does not include any process for appeals or remediation, allowing local school districts unlimited power over home education families.
Penalties for parents:
- Class C misdemeanor: Parents can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor if their child is absent without a valid reason.
- Jail time: Parents can face up to 30 days in jail.
- Fines: Parents can face fines of up to $500.
- Court referral: Judges may refer parents to criminal court if they fail to take responsibility for their child's supervision.
Penalties for students:
- Truancy referral: Students may be referred to juvenile court.
- Driver's license suspension: High school students who are habitual truants may have their driver's license suspended.
- Academic probation: Students may face academic probation.
- Community service: Students may be required to complete 20-40 hours of community service over a 90-day period.
- Mental health issues: Truancy can impact a student's mental health.
- Future academic pursuits: Truancy can impact a student's future academic pursuits.