SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Representative David Friess this week met with a group of homeschooling families in Pinckneyville, IL, to discuss concerns regarding HB 2827. More than 50 parents were present at the meeting, which Carrie Gilliam, Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Pinckneyville, organized. The families in attendance strongly believe that this bill interferes with their rights to educate their children at home.
“I agree, and I firmly oppose HB 2827 as it places unnecessary burdens on homeschooling families and undermines parents’ rights to make the best educational choices for their children. Illinois has long upheld educational freedom for homeschooling families, and this bill would introduce intrusive government oversight that is both unwarranted and excessive,” Rep. Friess said
According to Rep. Friess, requiring annual filings with local school districts and imposing the threat of truancy charges only create bureaucratic red tape without improving educational outcomes. Instead of expanding government control over families already committed to their children’s education, Rep. Friess said the state should focus on addressing ongoing challenges within the public school system.
With more than 43,000 committee witness slips filed in opposition, HB 2827 was scheduled last week for an 8 a.m. committee hearing in the smallest House committee room in the Capitol. Defying overwhelming public opposition to the new mandates, Democrats advanced the bill through committee on a vote of 8-4-1. All House Republicans on the committee voted “no”.
“I will continue to oppose HB 2827 and any legislation that infringes on parental rights,” Rep. Friess added. “Your advocacy is crucial in this effort, and I encourage you to stay engaged by reaching out to fellow legislators and sharing your perspective with them.”