Metro East Sun

Rep. Amy Elik of Alton is celebrating what she views as a victory for homeschool families after the Homeschool Act, HB 2827, did not proceed to a vote by the House bill deadline. The bill has faced public opposition, primarily due to its mandates and proposed annual registration for homeschool families. Elik emphasizes her concerns about the potential costs and the restrictions the bill would impose on homeschooling.

"This is a bad bill, and it couldn’t get the votes necessary to pass it through the House," Elik stated. "Illinois has far bigger problems right now than mandating homeschool families. Although this bill could still come back, this is a big win for Illinois families."

The bill, held on third reading, could still be called for a vote before the May 31 adjournment. However, its opponents, including Elik, are relieved that it did not receive sufficient support to move forward. Elik continues to encourage homeschool advocates to remain active and vigilant.

"Your voices matter," Elik added. "Over the course of this legislation’s life, over 130,000 people have filed witness slips in opposition to this bill and its amendments. Republicans and Democrats have serious concerns about this bill. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so I urge homeschool advocates to remain diligent and informed."

The bill's notes, which requested information about its impact, were deemed inapplicable, with Republicans and some Democrats voting against them.

Elik plans to keep constituents informed through updates on her Facebook page and encourages following the bill's progress on ilga.gov.

She took to the House floor to express support for homeschool families, attributing the bill's challenges to "misinformation." Her remarks can be accessed online.