“Homeschool Act” Passes Committee Among Overwhelming Opposition: Rep. Sheehan Stands with Home and Private School Families (Springfield, IL) – State Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Homer Glen) is standing firm in his commitment to protect the rights of parents to choose the best educational path for their children. HB 2827, the controversial “Homeschool Act,” was heard in committee today and passed despite overwhelming opposition from families who have chosen home or private schooling. This bill mandates that non-public elementary and secondary schools register annually with the Illinois State Board of Education and requires homeschools to submit a Homeschool Declaration Form or face fines and even imprisonment. It also demands that administrators provide personal information about themselves and their students to state and local authorities.
“Parents know what’s best for their children, not bureaucrats in Springfield,” said Rep. Patrick Sheehan. “This bill is a blatant overreach that seeks to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. We should be empowering families, not burdening them with unnecessary mandates.”
The public has made their opposition to this legislation loud and clear. Over 40,000 Illinois residents filed witness slips against HB 2827, and thousands traveled to the State Capitol to share their positive experiences with homeschooling and voice their concerns about government overreach.
“Forcing additional mandates on responsible parents is not the answer,” Rep. Sheehan continued. “I will continue to fight for the rights of families to make their own educational choices.”
HB 2827 was heard in the Education Policy Committee this morning. Despite unanimous opposition from Republican lawmakers, the bill passed committee and now moves to the House Floor for a vote.
Rep. Sheehan proudly serves the people of the 37th District.
“Homeschool Act” Passes Committee Among Overwhelming Opposition: Rep. Sheehan Stands with Home and Private School Families
