House Floor Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Language Equality Acquisition for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind Children Act. Provides that the Act applies to children from birth to 5 years of age and is subject to appropriation. Provides that the Department of Human Services, in consultation with various State agencies, shall establish a language needs and monitoring program for deaf, hard of hearing, or DeafBlind children. Provides that an advisory committee on language needs and monitoring shall be established. Provides that the Department, in consultation with various State agencies, shall publish a joint action plan that considers the recommendations of the advisory committee and may propose legislation and rules necessary to implement the Act. Provides for reporting, information sharing, and rulemaking. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/19/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/19/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 059-000-000

5/19/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the Senate by 059-000-000.

Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. In provisions requiring an additional employer contribution for certain salary increases greater than 6%, provides that the System shall exclude salary increases given on or after July 1, 2025 resulting from overload work, including summer school, when the school district has certified to the System, and the System has approved the certification, that (i) the overload work is for the sole purpose of classroom instruction in excess of the standard number of classes for a full-time teacher in a school district during a school year and (ii) the salary increases are equal to or less than the rate of pay for classroom instruction computed on the teacher's current salary and work schedule. Effective immediately.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the engrossed bill with the following changes. In provisions requiring an additional employer contribution for certain salary increases greater than 6%, provides that the System shall exclude salary increases given on or after the effective date of the amendatory Act resulting from overload work, summer school, or stipend work when the school district has certified to the System, and the System has approved the certification, that the overload work, summer school, or the stipend work is for the sole purpose of classroom instruction in excess of the standard number of classes for a full-time teacher in a school district during a school year (instead of shall exclude salary increases given on or after July 1, 2025 resulting from overload work, including summer school, when the school district has certified to the System, and the System has approved the certification, that (i) the overload work is for the sole purpose of classroom instruction in excess of the standard number of classes for a full-time teacher in a school district during a school year and (ii) the salary increases are equal to or less than the rate of pay for classroom instruction computed on the teacher's current salary and work schedule). Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - House Concurs

5/31/2026 - Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 House Concurs 092-025-000

Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. In a provision concerning the prosecution of a person for an offense of criminal sexual assault, predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, aggravated criminal sexual assault, criminal sexual abuse, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, aggravated battery, or aggravated domestic battery, deletes which states that there is provision a rebuttable presumption that the testimony of a victim who is a child under 13 years of age shall occur outside the courtroom and the child's testimony shall be shown in the courtroom by means of a closed circuit television. Deletes that this presumption may be overcome if the defendant can prove by clear and convincing evidence that the child victim will not suffer severe emotional distress. Provides that, if the court denies the State's request for the child victim's testimony to be taken outside the courtroom, the court shall toll the speedy trial requirements for 30 days to allow the State to present the motion to the court again before trial requesting the child's testimony to be taken outside the courtroom by means of a closed circuit television.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - In the provision that provides that before the court permits the testimony of a victim outside the courtroom that is to be shown in the courtroom by means of a closed circuit television, the court must make a finding that the testimony by means of closed circuit television does not unduly prejudice (rather than prejudice) the defendant. Deletes a provision that states that if the court denies the State's request for the child victim's testimony to be taken outside the courtroom, the court shall toll the speedy trial requirements for 30 days to allow the State to present the motion to the court again before trial requesting the child's testimony to be taken outside the courtroom by means of a closed circuit television.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - House Concurs

5/31/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 House Concurs 115-000-000

Amends the School Boards Article of the School Code. Provides that the length of a contract between a deactivating school district that is seeking to send its students to more than one district and the receiving district shall be for 4 (rather than 2) school years, but the districts may renew the contract for a length of time that is mutually agreed upon by the districts (rather than for additional one-year or 2-year periods).

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 059-000-000

5/21/2026 - House Bills on Third Reading Agreed Bill List

House Floor Amendment No. 4 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the School Code. In provisions concerning the administration of asthma medication, epinephrine injectors, opioid antagonists, and oxygen, provides that "trained personnel" includes coaches and athletic trainers. Defines "coach" as a volunteer or employee of a school who is responsible for organizing and supervising students to teach or train them in the fundamental skills of an interscholastic athletic activity, and provides that "coach" refers to both a head coach and an assistant coach. Defines "athletic trainer" as a licensed athletic trainer hired by or contracted by a school district or the governing body of a charter school or nonpublic school to aid a school in the evaluation, prevention, or physical reconditioning of injuries and the management of asthma, the prevention of asthma symptoms, and emergency asthma response in a school setting. Provides that a school district, public school, charter school, or nonpublic school may maintain a supply of asthma medication in a practice field or gym. Provides that the changes made by the amendatory Act are subject to appropriation or available grant funding.

  RECENT STATUS

6/12/2026 - Sent to Governor for Signature

5/14/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/14/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 058-000-000

House Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Higher Education Student Support and Academic Freedom Act. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall strive to foster an environment that is free from unlawful discrimination or harassment based on any protected characteristic under applicable law, to maintain clear, content-neutral conduct standards and reporting channels designed to address unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and retaliation, and to have clear policies describing how students with disabilities can request and receive reasonable accommodations to enable equal academic and campus participation. Prohibits public institutions of higher education from unlawfully infringing on students' constitutional rights to free speech, press, assembly, and petition. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall have the ability to allow students to form and join associations and to allow students to engage in lawful, peaceful protest. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall strive to publish clear, accurate, and timely information regarding courses, degree pathways, credit evaluation and transferability, and graduation criteria and to assess academic performance based on demonstrated learning and achievement and pursuant to published standards. Provides that students have the right to inspect, review, and request corrections to higher educational records. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall have the ability to ensure academic programs are guided by professional and disciplinary standards and academic integrity. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall strive to provide students with information and opportunities in pertinent academic programs that promote workforce-relevant skills, career exploration, and stackable or recognized credentials of value, to provide independently accredited education that integrates broad learning, cultivates transferable skills, and prepares students for engaged citizenship, to provide students with a fair disciplinary process appropriate to the nature of the applicable disciplinary charge, to follow published policies and provide internal appeal routes for adverse educational actions as appropriate or required by applicable law, and to clearly disclose tuition, fees, and applicable, material financial obligations prior to and during enrollment. Provides that public institutions of higher education shall have the ability to publish transparent policies on tuition refunds, withdrawals, and cancellations and shall strive to provide a timely, transparent, and consistent evaluation of transfer credits using published criteria. Sets forth provisions concerning construction of the Act.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 037-019-000

5/31/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the Senate by 037-019-000.

Amends the School Code. Extends the time period during which a school district other than the Chicago school district may transfer moneys from specified funds for any purpose from June 30, 2026 to June 30, 2029. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 059-000-000

5/21/2026 - House Bills on Third Reading Agreed Bill List

Amends the Regional Superintendent of Schools Article of the School Code. With respect to the requirement that institutes provide instruction on trauma-informed practices and include the definitions of trauma, trauma-responsive learning environments, and whole child before the first student attendance day of each school year, makes changes to the definitions of "trauma" and "trauma-responsive learning environments". Defines "trauma-informed practices" to include awareness of populations for whom trauma may be ongoing, relational, and developmentally expressed over time. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/20/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 041-017-000

Amends the Child Care Act of 1969. Provides that a licensed day care center may hire an individual who is in the process of completing the educational requirements set forth in administrative rules as an Interim Conditional Child Care Director for a period of 12 months. Requires the hired individual to provide documentation that shows that the individual is enrolled in courses that meet the requirements set forth in administrative rules. Provides that the individual shall be enrolled in an accredited college or university. Provides that during the 12-month employment period, an Interim Conditional Child Care Director with specified qualifications is exempt from the educational requirements set forth in administrative rules.

House Floor Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Sets forth the educational requirements for child care directors hired on or after the effective date of the amendatory Act. Makes changes to the qualifications for interim conditional child care directors. Provides that only licensed day care centers that have already employed at least one fully qualified and credentialed child care director may hire an interim conditional child care director. Provides that any licensed day care center that employs an interim conditional child care director is restricted to hiring no more than 2 interim conditional child care directors for every employed credentialed and qualified child care director. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the engrossed bill with the following changes. Provides that a licensed day care center may employ (rather than hire) an individual who is in the process of completing the educational requirements set forth in the Illinois Administrative Code as an interim conditional child care director for the period of 12 months if they meet the conditions outlined in specific provisions. Provides that an individual employed under the provision shall comply with the process established by the Department of Early Childhood. Requires the licensed day care center, at the time of the individual's employment, to provide documentation that shows that the individual is enrolled in courses at an accredited college or university that satisfy those requirements. Provides that any licensed day care center that employs an interim conditional child care director is restricted to hiring no more than one interim conditional child care director (rather than 2 interim conditional child care directors) for every credentialed and qualified child care director employed. Provides that if an interim conditional child care director leaves the position of interim conditional child care director during the 12-month period, the licensed day care center may employ a new interim conditional child care director to replace the previous interim conditional child care director. Provides that a day care center shall ensure direct supervision on an ongoing basis by a fully qualified child care director practicing in the State of Illinois, with a minimum of monthly on-site check-ins, unless the supervising director determines that more frequent check-ins are required, which shall continue for the entire duration of any interim conditional child care director's appointment. Provides that an interim conditional child care director shall not be scheduled during any hours when an interim conditional teacher is on duty. Provides that parents and caregivers shall be notified if an interim conditional child care director is employed by a day care center, and that this information shall be posted in a common area that is visible to parents and caregivers for the duration of the interim period. Provides that failure to comply with the provisions shall result in a violation and the issuance of a corrective action plan. Provides that the Department shall adopt rules to implement the provisions in accordance with the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Provides that the provision is repealed on June 30, 2032. Effective July 1, 2027.

  RECENT STATUS

5/27/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/27/2026 - House Concurs

5/27/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 House Concurs 088-021-000

Amends the School Code. Allows a school district to comply with provisions concerning school unused food sharing plans by implementing a share table. Provides that the school district may develop and follow a policy on standard operating procedures for share tables. Effective August 1, 2027.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Passed; 059-000-000

5/21/2026 - House Bills on Third Reading Agreed Bill List

Amends the School Code. Makes changes to provisions regarding departments and functions of the State Board of Education, the teacher supply and demand report, waivers and modifications of mandates and administrative rules, audits of a school district's accounts, statements of affairs, the Illinois Purchased Care Review Board, evidence-based funding, the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board, qualifications of educators, provisional educator endorsements on Educator Licenses with Stipulations, educator testing exemptions, the Teacher Performance Assessment Advisory Committee, teacher and principal model evaluation templates, children and students who are parents, expectant parents, or victims of domestic or sexual violence, the advisory committee under the Critical Health Problems and Comprehensive Health Education Act, and charter school renewals. Changes the following terms: "Teacher Certificate Fee Revolving Fund" to "Teacher Licensure Fee Revolving Fund"; "foreign countries" to "countries other than the United States"; "ethnic school" to "community-based heritage language school"; "foreign language" to "world language"; and "epinephrine injector" to "epinephrine delivery system". Repeals the Community Service Education Act, and makes changes in the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act. Makes other and conforming changes in the School Code, the State Finance Act, and various Acts relating to the governance of public universities. Effective immediately.

House Committee Amendment No. 1 - Makes conforming changes in the School Code with respect to changing the term "foreign language" to "world language" and the term "foreign citizen" to "citizen of a country other than the United States".

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Amends House Bill 3772 of the 104th General Assembly, if and only if that bill becomes law, to specify that the amendatory provisions regarding the suspension or expulsion of students in the School Code and the amendatory provisions regarding grants for preschool educational programs in the Department of Early Childhood Act take effect July 1, 2028 (rather than 2027).

  RECENT STATUS

5/27/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/27/2026 - House Concurs

5/27/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 House Concurs 074-037-000

Amends the Courses of Study Article of the School Code. Requires a school board to offer courses in Hindi, Urdu, Gujarati, Telugu, and Malayalam as a part of its school foreign language curricula.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Transportation Article of the School Code. Provides that the allowable direct cost of transporting pupils for regular, vocational, and special education pupil transportation shall be limited to, among other costs, expenditures to electrification-as-a-service contractors that provide electric school buses or a combination of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, equipment, or daily charge management services, plus a depreciation allowance of 8.33% for 12 years for electric school buses and vehicles approved for transporting pupils to and from school.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the School Code. Provides that, by July 1, 2027, the school board of each school district in the State that offers its employees a retirement savings plan established under Section 403(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 may enter into a contract with one or more vendors to provide participants with plan investments options. Provides that a vendor selected under after the effective date of the Act must be mutually agreed upon by the affected collective bargaining unit or units and the school board must ensure that the vendor follows the specified investment guidelines. Permits a specified vendor offering a plan to charge an investment advisory representative fee not to exceed 0.50% annually. Provides that, if a new vendor is chosen to administer a retirement saving plan that is offered by the specified school board of a school district, an employee of the school district may opt out of having the employee's individual 403(b) assets transferred to that new vendor. Limits applicability of the provisions to contracts entered into, extended, or renewed on or after the effective date of the Act.

  RECENT STATUS

6/2/2025 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

6/2/2025 - Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

5/31/2025 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

House Floor Amendment No. 4 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the School Code. Provides that on or before the beginning of the 2027-2028 school year, each school board and charter school shall adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy. Requires the policy and administrative responses for violations of the policy to be published in a student handbook, if one exists. Establishes exceptions for the use of a wireless communication device during school time. Prohibits a school district or charter school from enforcing the wireless communication device policy through fees, fines, suspensions, expulsions, or the deployment of a school resource officer or local law enforcement officer. Sets forth how the policy shall be developed. Provides that a school board, the governing body of a charter school, and any school personnel are immune from any liability resulting from damage to a wireless communication device if the device is stored in good faith and in accordance with the wireless communication device policy. Provides that the wireless communication device policy shall be posted on the school district's or charter school's publicly accessible Internet website. Requires, by September 1, 2026, the State Board of Education to post on its website a template for a model wireless communication device policy. Provides that if a school district or charter school has an existing wireless communication device policy in place before the effective date of the amendatory Act that limits wireless communication devices during a majority of or the entirety of the school day, the district or charter school may keep its existing policy in place through the 2030-2031 school year, at which point the district or charter school must adopt a wireless communication device policy meeting the requirements the amendatory Act. Makes other and conforming changes. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - Senate Concurs

5/31/2026 - House Floor Amendment No. 4 Senate Concurs 055-002-000

Amends the School Code. Provides that, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, the cursive writing instruction offered by public elementary schools must be offered to students in grades 3 through 5 (rather than requiring school districts to determine at what grade level or levels students are to be offered cursive writing, provided that such instruction must be offered before students complete grade 5).

  RECENT STATUS

3/13/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

2/24/2026 - To Mandates

1/27/2026 - Assigned to Senate Education

Creates the Mobile Panic Alert System Act. Provides that the Act may be referred to as Alyssa's Law. Requires, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, each public school to implement a mobile panic alert system capable of connecting diverse emergency services technologies to ensure real-time coordination between multiple first responder agencies. Allows a school district to implement additional strategies or systems to ensure real-time coordination between multiple first responder agencies in a school security emergency. Sets forth provisions requiring a competitive contract solicitation. Subject to appropriation, requires the State Board of Education to establish and administer a Mobile Panic Alert System Grant Program for the purpose of issuing grants to reimburse school districts for the cost of mobile panic alert systems from moneys appropriated from the Mobile Panic Alert System Grant Fund. Amends the State Finance Act and the School Code to make conforming changes. Effective January 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

3/13/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

2/24/2026 - To Safety

1/27/2026 - Assigned to Senate Education

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the School Boards Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning in-service training programs, provides that the instruction on the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, as it pertains to the school environment, includes, without limitation, service animals.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 079-025-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 079-025-000.

Amends the County Shelter Care and Detention Home Act, the Illinois Local Library Act, the Public Library District Act of 1991, the Village Library Act, the Libraries in Parks Act, the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, the Nursing Home Care Act, the Child Care Act of 1969, the Illinois Public Aid Code, the Unified Code of Corrections, and the Probation and Probation Officers Act to require the placement of contact information for the 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Amends the School Code. With respect to the comprehensive health education program, provides that a school board shall require each public school serving students in any of grades 6 through 12 to assess courses and seminars available to those students through their regular academic experiences and implement age-appropriate, evidence-based suicide prevention curricula if opportunities for integration exist. Further amends the Unified Code of Corrections. In provisions concerning an inmate's successful transition to the community, provides that release planning shall include access to suicide prevention resources.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 3 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that the Act may be referred to as Tammurra's Act. Amends the Public Higher Education Act, the University of Illinois Hospital Act, and the Hospital Licensing Act. Requires a public institution of higher education to place contact information for the 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in each of its facilities in a prominent location that is visible to and accessible by students and staff. Requires a hospital to conspicuously post contact information for the 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the hospital, either by physical or electronic means, for display in an area of its offices accessible by patients, employees, and visitors. Removes the provisions amending the Illinois Public Aid Code.

House Floor Amendment No. 1 - In the provisions of the School Code concerning the comprehensive health education program, removes the amendatory language requiring a school board, in implementing suicide prevention curricula, to require each public school serving students in any of grades 6 through 12 to assess courses and seminars available to those students through their regular academic experiences. Allows the State Board of Education to make resource materials available to support school districts and educators with evidence-based, developmentally appropriate resources regarding student instruction in the topics of mental health and illness and to make these resource materials available on the State Board's Internet website.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - Senate Concurs

5/31/2026 - House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs 057-000-000

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Changes the requirements for issuance of a paraprofessional educator endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations as follows: Requires the applicant to be at least 18 years of age and using the Educator License with Stipulations exclusively for grades prekindergarten through 8 until the individual reaches the age of 19 years or be 19 years of age or older and otherwise meet the criteria for a paraprofessional educator endorsement. Requires the applicant to also meet at least one of the following requirements: (i) hold a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent and pass a paraprofessional competency test; (ii) hold an associate degree or a minimum of 60 semester hours of credit from a regionally accredited institution of higher education; or (iii) if applicable, have been issued a short-term approval for paraprofessionals and have been employed as a paraprofessional educator for each year the short-term approval is valid, have paid the required license renewal fee, and have been determined by the school district to have met specified competencies. Makes other changes.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 111-000-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 111-000-000.

Amends the School Code. Requires, subject to appropriation, the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, to establish the School Resource Officer Grant Program to fund salaries and any other costs associated with the hiring of an active law enforcement officer as a school resource officer. Provides that eligible entities are schools or school districts that have hired an active law enforcement officer as a school resource officer and the law enforcement agency or agencies that a school or school district has an intergovernmental agreement with to employ a school resource officer. Provides that any funds distributed to an eligible entity under the Program shall be equally distributed between the eligible entities in an intergovernmental agreement to employ a school resource officer. Allows the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, to adopt rules as needed for the Program's implementation and the distribution of grants. Makes a conforming change.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

5/5/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the School Code. Provides that the regional superintendent of schools for Regional Office of Education 19, the regional superintendent of schools for Regional Office of Education 31, and the regional superintendent of schools for Regional Office of Education 56 shall jointly conduct a comprehensive study evaluating the feasibility of reorganizing school districts within their educational service regions into unit school districts. Sets forth the components and requirements of the study.

  RECENT STATUS

3/13/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

2/3/2026 - Assigned to Senate Education

1/13/2026 - Referred to Senate Assignments

Amends the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Increases, except for persons who first retired prior to the effective date of the amendatory Act, the amount of the death benefit from $3,000 to $8,000. Makes conforming changes. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following change. Further amends the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Adds regional water commissions under the Illinois Municipal Code to the list of participating instrumentalities. Effective immediately, except that certain changes to the Illinois Pension Code are effective January 1, 2027.

  RECENT STATUS

5/30/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/30/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 114-000-000

5/30/2026 - Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate

Amends the Courses of Study Article of the School Code. Provides that, beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, the State Board of Education shall establish a pilot program in 5 school districts requiring pupils in prekindergarten through grade 12 to receive developmental etiquette education. Provides that, beginning with the 2028-2029 school year, every school district in this State shall require pupils in prekindergarten through grade 12 to receive developmental etiquette education. Sets forth the grades and instruction for developmental etiquette education, and requires feedback and evaluations. Provides that, beginning with the 2028-2029 school year, as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma, each pupil in grade 12 must, in addition to other course requirements, successfully complete developmental etiquette education.

  RECENT STATUS

3/27/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

2/24/2026 - To Mandates

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the School Code. In provisions concerning the administration of asthma medication, epinephrine injectors, opioid antagonists, and oxygen, provides that "trained personnel" includes coaches and athletic trainers. Defines "coach" as a volunteer or employee of a school who is responsible for organizing and supervising students to teach or train them in the fundamental skills of an interscholastic athletic activity, and provides that "coach" refers to both a head coach and an assistant coach. Defines "athletic trainer" as a licensed athletic trainer hired by or contracted by a school district to aid a school in the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment, emergency care, and rehabilitation of injuries. Provides that a school district, public school, charter school, or nonpublic school may maintain a supply of asthma medication in a practice field or gym. Provides that the changes made by the amendatory Act are subject to appropriation or available grant funding.

  RECENT STATUS

4/17/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

4/16/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

4/15/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act with respect to the monetary award program. Beginning with the 2027-2028 academic year through the 2031-2032 academic year, provides that an applicant who is otherwise eligible for grant assistance under the program may receive grant assistance for an additional academic year after receiving a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent of 135 semester credit hours if he or she (i) enrolls in a State-approved educator preparation program and (ii) within 5 years after receiving a Professional Educator License, teaches in this State for a minimum of 3 years. Requires repayment if at any time a person fails to meet the requirements. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Children with Disabilities Article of the School Code. Creates the Special Education Workload Task Force to develop guidance on the calculation of workload limits for special educators. Sets forth the members. Provides for meetings and administrative support. Requires the Task Force to submit its guidance to the State Board of Education and the General Assembly on or before June 30, 2027. Dissolves the Task Force upon submission of the guidance. Repeals these provisions on June 30, 2028.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

5/5/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Evaluation of Certified Employees Article of the School Code. Prohibits an evaluator from using an artificial intelligence tool to assign a numerical score or qualitative rating for any component of a teacher's evaluation or any evaluation task that requires professional judgment. However, allows an artificial intelligence tool to be used to support the evaluator in administrative tasks.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause with the provisions of the introduced bill, and makes the following changes: Provides that a teacher is prohibited from using an artificial intelligence tool to generate evidence of professional practice that will be used by an evaluator to evaluate the teacher's performance; however, an artificial intelligence tool may be used by a teacher to support the teacher in administrative tasks. Makes changes concerning the joint committee requirement. Provides that if a teacher uses an artificial intelligence tool, the name and specific purpose of the artificial intelligence tool must be disclosed to the evaluator evaluating the teacher.

  RECENT STATUS

5/27/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/27/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 113-000-000

5/27/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 113-000-000.

Amends the Evaluation of Certified Employees Article of the School Code. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2026, if a school district and its teachers cannot reach agreement over the decision on whether to incorporate the use of data and indicators on student growth as a factor in rating teaching performance into a teacher evaluation plan and there is no collective bargaining agreement that includes or incorporates by reference the teacher evaluation plan, then the student growth component shall be removed from the teacher evaluation plan. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following change. Provides that if the parties cannot reach agreement over the decision on whether to incorporate a student growth component into the teacher evaluation plan and there is no collective bargaining agreement that includes or incorporates by reference the use of a student growth component in the teacher evaluation plan (rather than that includes or incorporates by reference the teacher evaluation plan), then the student growth component shall be removed from the teacher evaluation plan. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 078-031-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 078-031-000.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Employment of Teachers Article of the School Code. In a provision requiring a school board, before setting a hearing on charges stemming from causes that are considered remediable, to give a teacher reasonable warning, in writing, stating specifically the causes that, if not removed, may result in charges, requires the written warning to specify the nature of the alleged misconduct that needs to be remedied. Provides that nothing in the provisions precludes a board from asserting that the specific conduct alleged in the original warning is part of an alleged pattern of behavior, but any subsequent action must be reasonably related to the specific conduct alleged in the original warning. Allows the teacher to request and requires the teacher to be granted an opportunity to respond to the findings in the written warning, either in person or in writing before the board, prior to the board's formal vote to approve the warning. Provides that if the teacher is in disagreement with the final action of the board, the teacher may take the written warning to binding arbitration. Provides that the arbitrator shall have the power to render a decision on the written warning, which shall be final and binding on both parties. Provides that each party shall pay one-half of the cost of the arbitration proceedings and each party is entitled to representation of the party's choosing at all stages in this process. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 083-025-000

5/21/2026 - Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate

Amends the School Code. In a provision related to student discipline policies and the establishment of a parent-teacher advisory committee, defines "parent-teacher advisory committee" and requires teachers to be selected for a parent-teacher advisory committee in cooperation with the school district's teachers or, if applicable, the exclusive bargaining representative of the district's teachers. In a provision regarding the suspension or expulsion of a student, provides that gross disobedience or misconduct shall be defined by school board policy, in collaboration with the school district's parent-teacher advisory committee.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause with the provisions of the introduced bill, and makes the following changes: Makes a change to the definition of "parent-teacher advisory committee". Provides that policy review includes the impact of student behavior on students and school personnel. Provides that the criminal and civil offenses committed by students that are reported under the reciprocal reporting system between a school district and local law enforcement agencies includes attacks on school personnel. Removes the provision regarding the suspension or expulsion of a student.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/22/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 084-016-000

5/22/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 084-016-000.

Amends the School Safety Drill Act. Provides that school districts and private schools in the State shall consider the use of mobile panic alert systems in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans. Provides that the mobile panic alert system, if used, shall be known as "Alyssa's Alert" and shall be capable of connecting to diverse emergency service technologies to ensure real-time coordination between multiple first responder agencies. Provides that the mobile panic alert system, if used, must be capable of integrating with local, public-safety, answering-point infrastructures to transmit 9-1-1 calls and mobile activations. Requires the State Board of Education to conduct market research, in consultation with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, to identify whether an existing market of supply of mobile panic alert systems that satisfy the requirements under the amendatory provisions is available in the State from multiple vendors for use by school districts. Requires the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, to develop standards for a mobile panic alert system. Requires the State Board of Education to establish and administer a Mobile Panic Alert System Grant Program. Provides that school districts and private schools may apply to the State Board of Education for a Program grant to obtain a mobile panic alert system in order to better prepare for emergency responses. Provides that Program grants shall be awarded from moneys appropriated for that purpose from the Mobile Panic Alert System Grant Fund. Amends the State Finance Act to make a conforming change.

  RECENT STATUS

3/27/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

3/4/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Assignments Refers to Education

Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that, through June 30, 2029 (instead of June 30, 2026), an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 120 paid days or 600 paid hours in each school year, but not more than 100 paid days in the same classroom. Makes a conforming change. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

6/2/2026 - Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

5/31/2026 - Third Reading/Final Action Deadline Extended-9(b) June 2, 2026

5/31/2026 - Senate Bills on Second Reading

Amends the School Code. Requires each school district maintaining any elementary grades to provide its public school pupils enrolled in kindergarten through grade 8 with age-appropriate, active-transportation safety training. Sets forth the requirements for the active-transportation safety training. Allows a nonpublic school maintaining any elementary grades to provide its nonpublic school pupils enrolled in kindergarten through grade 8 with active-transportation safety training. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to maintain a comprehensive collection of active-transportation safety training materials. Makes other changes.

  RECENT STATUS

3/27/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

2/24/2026 - To Mandates

Appropriates $1,211,674,900 to the State Board of Education for disabled student transportation reimbursements, disabled student tuition and private tuition, and regular and vocational common school transportation reimbursements. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

2/3/2026 - Assigned to Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Board of Higher Education Act. Subject to appropriation, requires the Board of Higher Education to create a school counselor stipend program. Provides that an educator preparation program shall notify the Board of all eligible students and eligible cooperating school counselors who qualify for the stipend program. Sets forth requirements for the disbursement of stipend funds under the program. Provides that an educator preparation program may not prohibit an eligible student from participating in the stipend program or from receiving a stipend from the stipend program. Requires an eligible cooperating school counselor who receives a stipend to complete specific training. Requires the Board to issue a report, in collaboration with the State Board of Education, evaluating the impact of the stipend program. Permits the Board to adopt emergency rules regarding the administration of the stipend program in certain circumstances. Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act to make corresponding changes. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

5/5/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Illinois Early Learning Council Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning the purpose of the Illinois Early Learning Council. Provides that the Secretary of Early Childhood or the Secretary's designee shall serve as co-chairperson of the Council. Provides that the governor shall appoint to the Council parents and caregivers of children 5 years of age or under. Provides that the Department of Early Childhood shall provide staffing and administrative support to the Council. Sets forth provisions concerning conflicts of interest. Amends the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Act. Provides that specified members of the advisory committee to the Early Childhood Access Consortium shall be appointed by the Department of Early Childhood.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that the Governor shall appoint to the Illinois Early Learning Council (i) a representative of a statewide advocacy organization that represents multiple Head Start and Early Head Start providers and (ii) the State Director of Head Start Collaboration. Removes a provision that requires the Governor to request that the Region V office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families appoint a member to the Council to represent federal children's programs and services.

  RECENT STATUS

4/17/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

4/16/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

4/15/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the School Code. In provisions concerning a school board's suspension or expulsion of pupils, provides that a student who is determined to have initiated sexual activity with another individual without that individual's consent, a sexual assault, or an attempted sexual assault at a school, a school-sponsored activity or event, or an activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year. Provides that (i) a student initiates sexual activity with another individual without that individual's consent if the student uses force or a threat of force to make the other individual perform a nonconsensual sexual act; (ii) a student initiates a sexual assault if the student commits an act of sexual penetration and uses force or a threat of force; and (iii) a student initiates an attempted sexual assault if, with the intent to commit a sexual assault, the student commits an act that constitutes a substantial step toward the commission of a sexual assault. Allows the expulsion requirement to be modified by the superintendent of the school district and the superintendent's determination to be modified by the school board on a case-by-case basis. Provides that the expulsion shall be construed in a manner consistent with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and a student who is subject to expulsion may be eligible for a transfer to an alternative school program. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that for additional purposes of the amendatory provisions, a student initiates sexual activity with another individual without that individual's consent if the other individual did not agree to participate in the sexual act or was unconscious, asleep, surprised, intoxicated, or drugged and, as a result, was not aware of, did not know of, did not perceive, or was not cognizant of the sexual act or the nature of the sexual act or if the other individual has a disability that made the individual unable to understand the nature of the sexual act, unable to consent to the sexual act, or incapable of resisting the sexual act; and a student initiates a sexual assault if the other individual did not agree to the sexual penetration or was unconscious, asleep, surprised, intoxicated, or drugged and, as a result, was not aware of, did not know of, did not perceive, or was not cognizant of the sexual penetration or the nature of the sexual penetration or if the other individual has a disability that made the individual unable to understand the nature of the sexual penetration, unable to consent to the sexual penetration, or incapable of resisting the sexual penetration. Provides that expulsion under the amendatory provisions shall be construed in a manner consistent with Title IX of the federal Education Amendments of 1972. Provides that expulsion under the amendatory provisions shall comply with other expulsion procedures. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/24/2026 - Postponed - Education

Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Provides that short-term approval of a paraprofessional educator endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations shall be given to an individual who meets the requirements in the Illinois Administrative Code. Provides that the short-term approval expires on June 30 immediately following 5 full fiscal years after the approval was given. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

6/1/2026 - Chief Sponsor Changed to Sen. John F. Curran

3/13/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

2/10/2026 - Assigned to Senate Education

Amends the School Code. Requires every public elementary and high school to include in its curriculum the study of the contributions made by Latin Americans to the economic, cultural, social, and political development of the United States. Provides that the regional superintendent of schools shall monitor a school district's compliance with the requirement during the regional superintendent's annual compliance visit and make recommendations for improvement. Provides that the failure by a school district or school to comply with the requirement shall result in a written warning for the first offense, and if the school district or school continues to fail to comply with the requirements, the school district or school shall face disciplinary action at the discretion of the regional superintendent. Requires the State Superintendent of Education to prepare and make available to all school boards instructional materials and professional development opportunities that may be used as guidelines for the development of a Latin American unit of study. Effective August 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

3/13/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

2/10/2026 - Assigned to Senate Education

1/29/2026 - Referred to Senate Assignments

Amends the School Code. Provides that the statement included in the State Board of Education's list of the identified days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances shall also encourage schools to avoid, if possible, scheduling significant academic deadlines or major school events on the identified days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances. Provides that upon the posting and distribution of the list, a district superintendent shall distribute information to all faculty and staff about upcoming days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances. Requires these days and dates to also be acknowledged and posted on official school or administrative calendars. With respect to a child being excused from attending school because of religious reasons, provides that if the exact date of the absence cannot be determined more than 5 days in advance due to the use of a lunar or other nonfixed calendar, notice of the child's absence shall be given as soon as reasonably possible. Provides that any child excused from attending school because of religious reasons shall be granted reasonable academic accommodations without penalty. Requires a district superintendent's procedures regarding a student's absence for religious reasons to include guidance on adjustments to academic schedules, assignments, or major school events.

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Amends the School Code. Allows a school district, public school, charter school, or nonpublic school to authorize a school nurse or trained personnel to: (1) provide undesignated ready-to-use glucagon to authorized personnel to administer ready-to-use glucagon to a student that meets the student's prescription on file; (2) administer undesignated ready-to-use glucagon that meets the prescription on file to any student who has a plan that authorizes the use of ready-to-use glucagon; and (3) administer undesignated ready-to-use glucagon to any person that the school nurse or trained personnel believes in good faith is having a severe hypoglycemia emergency. Makes conforming changes regarding liability, where and when the undesignated ready-to-use glucagon may be administered, supply maintenance, notification of administration to the student's parent or guardian or emergency contact, training, and reports of administration to the State Board of Education, General Assembly, and Department of Public Health.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Changes the term "undesignated ready-to-use glucagon" to "undesignated glucagon". Makes changes to allow a school nurse or trained personnel to provide undesignated glucagon to any personnel authorized under a student's Individual Health Care Action Plan, in accordance with the student's prescriber's order or federal Section 504 plan, individualized education program, or other written accommodations plan, to administer glucagon to the student and to administer undesignated glucagon to a student in accordance with the student's prescriber's order, Individual Health Care Action Plan, or Section 504 plan, individualized education program, or other written accommodations plan that authorizes the use of glucagon. Removes language that allows a school nurse or trained personnel to administer undesignated ready-to-use glucagon to any person whom the school nurse or trained personnel in good faith believes to be experiencing a severe hypoglycemia emergency while in school, while at a school-sponsored activity, while under the supervision of school personnel, or before or after normal school activities. Provides for the reporting of the age of the student receiving the undesignated glucagon (rather than the age and type of person receiving the undesignated ready-to-use glucagon). Makes related changes.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 107-000-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 107-000-000.

Amends the School Code. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Department of Public Health, shall develop an educational document explaining, at a minimum, the values of good indoor air quality and shall supply the document to school districts. Provides that, subject to funding from the State Board, a school district shall ensure that all active classrooms are equipped with an air quality monitor.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/28/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Children with Disabilities Article of the School Code. Provides that, with respect to any State statute or administrative rule that defines a general education classroom to be composed of a certain percentage of students with individualized education programs, such percentage shall exclude students with individualized education programs receiving only speech-language pathology services outside of the general education classroom for a mild speech disorder, provided that the instruction the students receive in the general education classroom does not require modification or accommodation (rather than providing that students with individualized education programs shall exclude students receiving only speech services outside of the general education classroom, provided that the instruction the students receive in the general education classroom does not require modification). Provides that such percentage shall include students with individualized education programs receiving only speech-language pathology services outside of the general education classroom for a moderate to severe speech disorder.

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Creates the Community College Economic Empowerment Act. Requires the Illinois Community College Board to provide an additional $1,000,000 per year in funding to community college districts whose primary campus is located within an enterprise zone, a HUBZone, or 2 miles of an opportunity zone; defines these zones. Establishes qualifications for funding. Requires each community college district that receives additional funds to submit an annual report to the Board. Requires the Board to submit a compiled annual report to the General Assembly. Provides that implementation of the Act is subject to appropriation. Contains a severability clause. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. Requires the Illinois Student Assistance Commission to establish the Adult Learner Flexible Education Grant Program to facilitate access to online postsecondary education for adults over the age of 25. Sets forth application requirements and eligibility. Provides that grants are applicable only to tuition and mandatory fees. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/29/2026 - Sponsor Removed Sen. Graciela Guzmán

Amends the Smart Start Illinois Act. Expands eligibility under the Smart Start Child Care Workforce Compensation Program to Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities Act. Changes the name of the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired to the Illinois School for the Blind. Makes conforming changes to the Personnel Code, the School Code, the School Safety Drill Act, the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Act, and the MRSA Prevention, Control, and Reporting Act.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 108-000-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 108-000-000.

Amends the School Code. Requires the State Board of Education to, on or before January 1, 2027, submit a report to the General Assembly regarding the status and availability of agricultural education programs in the State. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause with the provisions of the introduced bill, and makes the following change: Requires the report to be submitted on or before March 1, 2027 (rather than January 1, 2027). Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

6/2/2026 - Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

5/31/2026 - Third Reading/Final Action Deadline Extended-9(b) June 2, 2026

5/31/2026 - Senate Bills on Second Reading

House Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Bond Authorization Act of 2026. Amends the State Finance Act, the General Obligation Bond Act, and the Build Illinois Bond Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning bond authorizations. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

6/10/2026 - Sent to Governor for Signature

6/1/2026 - 3/5 Vote Required

6/1/2026 - Sponsor Removed Sen. Li Arellano, Jr.

Appropriates $5,000,000 to the State Board of Education to award funding under the Education of Homeless Children and Youth State Grant Program to be used to support programming for students at risk for or experiencing homelessness. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

2/17/2026 - Assigned to Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act with respect to the Illinois Veteran grant program. Changes the definition of "qualified applicant" to include a person who, among satisfying other requirements, does not meet requirements regarding residency or public institution of higher education enrollment in the State, but (i) at least 12 months of his or her federal active duty took place in the State, (ii) he or she resided in the State for 2 years after leaving federal active duty service, and (iii) he or she now serves in a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/28/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Senate Floor Amendment No. 3 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Board of Higher Education Act and the Public Community College Act. Provides that, by September 1, 2028 and every September 1 thereafter, the Board of Higher Education or the Illinois Community College Board, respectively, shall compile and make available to the public an annual report that contains the following information for public institutions of higher education: (1) the number of credit hours taught by full-time instructional faculty, organized by institution, tenure status, including tenure-line and nontenure-line, and discipline; and (2) the number of credit hours taught by part-time instructional faculty, organized by institution and discipline.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 083-028-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 083-028-000.

Amends the Employment of Teachers Article of the School Code with respect to the removal or dismissal of teachers in contractual continued service. In provisions specifying that if a decision of a hearing officer for dismissal or of a school board for dismissal for cause is adjudicated upon review or appeal in favor of a teacher, then the trial court shall order reinstatement and shall remand the matter to the school board with direction for entry of an order setting the amount of back pay, lost benefits, and costs, less mitigation, provides that, post reinstatement, the mutually selected hearing officer shall maintain jurisdiction over the back pay so that the teacher may challenge and the hearing officer may potentially amend the school board's order setting the amount of back pay, lost benefits, interest, and costs, including, but not limited to, attorney's fees, less mitigation, through an expedited arbitration procedure, with the costs of the arbitrator borne by the school board (rather than providing that the teacher may challenge the school board's order setting the amount of back pay, lost benefits, and costs, less mitigation, through an expedited arbitration procedure, with the costs of the arbitrator borne by the school board).

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Allows an institution of higher education approved to offer educator preparation programs to pursue accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Provides that an institution of higher education that receives and retains CAEP accreditation may forgo the State reauthorization process. Requires the State Board of Education to adopt rules for the reauthorization of a CAEP-accredited institution of higher education.

  RECENT STATUS

5/15/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/14/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

5/13/2026 - Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading May 14, 2026

Amends the School Code. Provides that the State Board of Education shall develop statewide guidance for school districts and educators on the use of technology-based learning resources in elementary and secondary education. Provides that the State Board of Education shall develop and publish the guidance by July 1, 2027 and provide continuous updates as it deems necessary. Allows the State Superintendent of Education to convene stakeholders for a statewide council to consult on the further development of guidance, resources, and other support for school districts and educators on the use of technology-based learning resources in schools.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the School Code. Provides that when registering or seeking recognition status with the State Board of Education, a nonpublic elementary or secondary school shall include assurances that the school will not prohibit religious hairstyles, hair-related religious practices, or facial hair worn in accordance with a student's or employee's sincerely held religious beliefs, observance, or practice. Provides that a school uniform or dress code policy adopted by a school board or local school council may not include or apply to religious hairstyles, hair-related religious practices, or facial hair worn in accordance with a student's sincerely held religious beliefs, observance, or practice. Makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following change. In provisions concerning the registration and recognition of non-public elementary and secondary schools, provides that a non-public, sectarian school that has registered or seeks to register or that has obtained or seeks to obtain recognition status is not subject to the requirements of the provisions that restrict a school's ability to adopt, enforce, or apply policies regarding religious hairstyles, hair-related religious practices, or facial hair worn in accordance with a student's or employee's sincerely held religious beliefs, observance, or practice. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 084-020-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 080-024-000.

Amends the Charter Schools Law of the School Code. Provides that upon approval of a charter renewal by an authorizer, the charter operator shall execute the renewal agreement no later than 90 days after the date of the authorizer's final renewal approval. Provides that a charter school that is deemed nonrenewed is ineligible to receive any payments from a school district. Provides that a charter operator that fails to execute a renewal agreement within a specified period may not continue to operate the charter school beyond the expiration of the existing charter term and is subject to closure procedures. Requires every charter operator to maintain closure security. Provides that failure to maintain closure security is a basis for the authorizer to withhold a portion of per-pupil payments until compliance is achieved and for consideration in denying a charter renewal or revoking the charter or ineligibility to operate additional charter campuses. Provides that if the closure security is insufficient to cover the costs of a closure event, the authorizer or the State Board of Education may bring a civil action against the charter operator to recover the unpaid amounts and seek to impose a lien on any property owned by the charter operator to secure recovery. Provides that if an authorizer determines that a charter school is in financial distress, the authorizer may require the charter operator to submit a financial remediation plan within 30 days. Provides that if the authorizer determines that the charter school has failed to implement an approved remediation plan or the financial distress presents an immediate risk to students, employees, or public funds, the authorizer may initiate financial intervention by appointing an independent fiscal manager approved by the authorizer and the State Board. Allows the fiscal manager to exercise authority limited to financial matters. Provides that financial intervention is temporary and may not exceed 180 days, except that the authorizer may extend the intervention once for good cause. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause with the provisions of the introduced bill, and makes the following changes. Provides that a charter may be revoked or not renewed if the school board or the State Board of Education clearly demonstrates that the charter school failed to execute a charter contract after good faith negotiations. Removes language providing that: upon approval of a charter renewal by an authorizer, the charter operator shall execute the renewal agreement no later than 90 days after the date of the authorizer's final renewal approval; a charter school that is deemed nonrenewed is ineligible to receive any payments from a school district; and a charter operator that fails to execute a renewal agreement within a specified period may not continue to operate the charter school beyond the expiration of the existing charter term and is subject to closure procedures. Provides that for an initial agreement, no public funds may be disbursed to a charter holder unless and until a charter agreement has been fully executed by both the charter holder and the authorizer. Provides that after the initial agreement, the charter holder and the authorizer shall negotiate the terms of the charter renewal agreement within 90 days after the authorizer's passage of a renewal resolution consistent with applicable State law and district policy. Provides that a charter operator's refusal to execute a charter renewal agreement that incorporates the requirements of State law or district signed-agreement requirements constitutes grounds for nonrenewal. Provides that any remaining closure security funds after satisfaction of obligations shall be returned to the authorizer and shall remain public funds in accordance with State and federal law. With regard to closure financial accountability, allows the State Board to act in its regulatory oversight capacity for all authorizers and in its capacity as an authorizer for charter schools it directly authorizes under the Charter Schools Law. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 3 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause with the provisions of the introduced bill, and makes the following changes. Provides that a charter may be revoked or not renewed if the school board or the State Board of Education clearly demonstrates that the charter school failed to execute a charter contract after good faith negotiations. Removes language providing that: upon approval of a charter renewal by an authorizer, the charter operator shall execute the renewal agreement no later than 90 days after the date of the authorizer's final renewal approval; a charter school that is deemed nonrenewed is ineligible to receive any payments from a school district; and a charter operator that fails to execute a renewal agreement within a specified period may not continue to operate the charter school beyond the expiration of the existing charter term and is subject to closure procedures. Provides that for an initial agreement, no public funds may be disbursed to a charter operator unless and until a charter agreement has been fully executed by both the charter operator and the authorizer. Provides that after the initial agreement, the charter operator and the authorizer shall negotiate the terms of the charter renewal agreement within 90 days after the authorizer's passage of a renewal resolution consistent with applicable State law and district policy. Provides that a charter operator's refusal to execute or negotiate, in good faith, a charter renewal agreement that incorporates the requirements of State law or district signed-agreement requirements constitutes grounds for nonrenewal. Provides that any remaining closure security funds after satisfaction of obligations shall be returned to the authorizer and shall remain public funds in accordance with State and federal law. With regard to closure financial accountability, allows the State Board to act in its regulatory oversight capacity for all authorizers and in its capacity as an authorizer for charter schools it directly authorizes under the Charter Schools Law. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/28/2026 - Alternate Chief Sponsor Changed to Rep. Aarón M. Ortíz

5/27/2026 - Substitute House Sponsorship Request Referred to Rules Committee

5/27/2026 - Substitute House Sponsorship Request Filed Pursuant Rule 37(c) Senator Celina Villanueva

Amends the School Code. Provides that a school board shall, upon passage of a referendum after submission of a petition signed by no less than 8% of the school district's voters in the last consolidated election, or may, by resolution, enter into a joint agreement with other school boards to share the services of a superintendent or other administrator. Provides that any savings realized by sharing services must be divided equally between classroom needs and property tax relief. Provides that a school district wishing to withdraw from the joint agreement shall obtain from its school board a written resolution approving the withdrawal and shall present a petition for withdrawal to the other member school districts within the timelines designated by the joint agreement if the school district entered into the joint agreement by resolution. Provides that a school district wishing to withdraw from the joint agreement shall submit to the voters of the district the question of whether the school district shall withdraw from the joint agreement if the school district entered into the joint agreement by a referendum vote (also provides for a referendum upon submission of a petition).

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Amends the Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act. Makes changes concerning definitions. Requires a higher education institution's comprehensive policy to include sexual harassment. Provides that a confidential advisor is separate from a complaint advisor, unless a complainant chooses to have the confidential advisor also serve as the complaint advisor. Makes changes to the complaint resolution procedure, including the timeline of the complaint resolution procedure, protective measures and accommodations, the distribution of evidence that includes a private or intentionally digitally altered sexual image, the direct questioning of either party, support persons for survivors and respondents, and the notice of appeal. Provides that violations of the Act are actionable in civil court. Sets forth the relief a prevailing survivor is entitled to. Amends the Code of Civil Procedure to make changes concerning confidential advisors. Makes other changes. Effective July 1, 2027.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that, on or before August 1, 2027, each higher education institution shall update its comprehensive policy to ensure compliance with the amendatory Act. Requires each higher education institution to act in accordance with its comprehensive policy. Provides that, beginning August 1, 2027, any party that is aggrieved by the failure of a higher education institution to respond to conduct that violates the higher education institution's comprehensive policy or the substantial failure of a higher education institution to act in accordance with its comprehensive policy may bring a civil lawsuit. Provides that the lawsuit must be brought no later than 7 years after the alleged violation of the comprehensive policy or 7 years after the date the aggrieved party becomes aware of the alleged violation, whichever is later. Provides that a higher education institution may consolidate complaints by a complainant against more than one respondent or by more than one complainant against one or more respondents if the allegations arise out of the same facts or circumstances if the higher education institution provides the complainant with a timely written notice of its intent to consolidate and offers the complainant a reasonable opportunity to respond. Changes references to "protective measures and accommodations" to references to "protective and supportive measures". Provides that each request for protective and supportive measures must be evaluated on an individualized basis to determine the reasonableness of the request, and, if the original request is determined to be unreasonable, the higher education institution must consider alternative reasonable protective and supportive measures to address the party's needs. Removes provisions concerning a cause of action under the Act and the relief to which a prevailing survivor is entitled. Makes other changes. Effective July 1, 2027.

  RECENT STATUS

5/8/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/7/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

5/6/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act. Requires the Board of Higher Education to establish the Mental Health Council. Establishes the student membership of the Council. Provides that the Council shall make recommendations to the Board regarding youth mental health. Requires the Council to meet at least 4 times annually.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

House Floor Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Prescription Drug Affordability Board Act. Establishes the Prescription Drug Affordability Board and the Prescription Drug Affordability Stakeholder Council. Sets forth provisions concerning membership and staff of the Board and the Council, conflicts of interest, powers and duties of the Board, operational plans for distribution and access to a drug with an upper payment limit, reporting requirements for the Board, and term expiration for the Board and the Council. Provides that the Board shall limit its review to the specified prescription drug products. Establishes further affordability review and upper payment limit implementation requirements. Provides that the Attorney General may enforce the Act. Permits a person aggrieved by a decision of the Board to request an appeal of the decision. Creates the Prescription Drug Affordability Board Fund. Provides that the Act is repealed 5 years after the Act's effective date. Amends the State Finance Act to make a conforming change. Effective 180 days after becoming law.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Consideration of House Amendments

5/30/2026 - Consideration of House Amendments

5/29/2026 - Consideration of House Amendments

Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the School Code. In a provision concerning twice-exceptional children, changes references from "children" to "students". Sets forth what the suggested best practices for addressing the educational and related needs of a twice-exceptional student, as well as any student who (i) is gifted, talented, or accelerated or would benefit from an advanced academic program and (ii) is eligible for a federal Section 504 plan, may include. Allows a school board to adopt a policy to allow for the development of a written education plan to address the advanced abilities or achievement levels of twice-exceptional students through individualized services, goals, accommodations, and objectives for a student, while continuing to provide services and support for the student's disabilities in all educational settings. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/31/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/31/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 117-000-000

5/31/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 117-000-000.

Appropriates $1,000,000 to the Illinois Community College Board for the purpose of implementing the Community College Economic Empowerment Act. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

2/17/2026 - Assigned to Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the School Code. Requires the State Board of Education to develop a standardized Uniform Compliance Complaint Form to be used statewide and made available on the website of every regional office of education and intermediate service center. Provides that the Uniform Compliance Complaint Form shall allow a complainant to allege a school district's or school's violation of the Code or a rule over which the regional superintendent of schools or intermediate service center's executive director has oversight. Provides that upon receipt of a written and signed complaint using the form, the regional office of education or intermediate service center shall conduct an independent investigation. Requires the regional office of education or the intermediate service center to issue a written decision to the complainant within 60 calendar days after receipt of the complaint. Provides that if the regional office of education or intermediate service center finds a violation of the Code or a rule, the regional office of education or intermediate service center shall issue a report requiring the district to develop a corrective action plan. Provides that any district or school official who knowingly provides false information during the investigation or refuses to cooperate with the regional office of education or the intermediate service center in its investigation is subject to a hearing regarding the official's professional educator license status. Allows a party to a complaint to appeal the decision of the regional office of education or the intermediate service center to the State Superintendent of Education within 30 days after the issuance of the written decision. Requires the State Board to adopt rules as are necessary to implement the provisions.

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In a provision regarding the Illinois Teaching Excellence Program, changes the definition of "hard-to-staff school" to mean a public school that either (i) is identified as hard-to-staff based on data reported on its school report card or (ii) does not have a school report card but serves a student population in which 30% or more of the student enrollment is considered low-income as determined by the State Board of Education using available enrollment or funding data, and provides that the State Board may not deny a National Board certified teacher a retention bonus solely because the public school at which the teacher is employed does not have a school report card.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code with respect to the Illinois Teaching Excellence Program. Provides that a maximum of $2,000 (rather than $1,000) shall be given as monetary assistance and incentives toward the National Board for Professional Teaching standards' renewal application fee. Removes other monetary assistance and incentives. Provides that the State Board of Education shall provide an annual stipend of $4,000 for up to 5 years to teachers who hold current National Board for Professional Teacher Standards certification. Provides that to receive the $4,000 annual stipend, the National Board certified teacher must be employed as a public school teacher and must hold a valid National Board for Professional Teacher Standards certificate throughout each year of the stipend. Provides that if there are adequate funds available, mentoring programming must be made available to support qualified educators in their pursuit of National Board certification. Sets forth specific incentives, and provides that funds may also be used for (i) professional development training provided by National Board certified teachers or (ii) instructional leadership training for qualified educators interested in supporting implementation of the Illinois Learning Standards or teaching and learning priorities of the State Board of Education or both. Provides that the selection of teachers who hold both a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards designation and a current corresponding certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards shall be encouraged for other mentoring programs.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the School Code. In the Courses of Study Article, provides that each school district and its schools shall create, maintain, and implement a policy for providing academic, social-emotional, and behavioral intervention within a framework of a multi-tiered system of support. Provides that the multi-tiered system of support process should use a collaborative team approach and include the engagement of and regular communication with the child's parent or guardian. Requires the parent or guardian of a child identified for additional support to be provided with written notice of the school district's use of scientific, research-based intervention within a multi-tiered system of support and the purpose of the intervention. Allows the parent or guardian to be part of the collaborative team approach at the discretion of the school district. Provides that the parent or guardian shall be provided all data collected and reviewed by the school district with regard to the child in the scientific, research-based intervention or multi-tiered system of support process. Allows the State Board of Education to provide guidance to school districts and identify available resources related to facilitating parent or guardian engagement in a multi-tiered system of support process. In the Children with Disabilities Article, repeals a Section concerning the response to scientific, research-based intervention or a multi-tiered system of support process.

  RECENT STATUS

5/8/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/7/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

5/6/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the School Code. Provides that the State Board of Education, in cooperation with the Department of Revenue, shall conduct an education funding reform study, with a goal of adopting a system that controls costs while creating a more equitable funding system. Provides that the State Board of Education shall study the feasibility of creating a statewide shared funding system. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Adult Education Act and the Public Community College Act. With respect to the annual report on adult education for the preceding school year by the Illinois Community College Board, removes the requirement to include a summary of State reimbursement for adult basic education, adult secondary education, English language acquisition, high school credit, integrated English literacy and civics education, and bridge and integrated education and training programs in coordination with vocational skills training. Provides that any public community college district maintaining adult educations classes for the instruction of those persons who, among other requirements, are 17 (rather than 16) years of age or older are entitled to claim an apportionment of State reimbursement. Allows classes in adult education to include digital literacy. Removes language providing that the maximum generation rate for reimbursement per credit hour or per unit of instruction shall be equal to the community college system reimbursement rate for adult education divided by one-third. Provides that State adult education funds, other than matching funds, are not subject to the authorizing federal law. Removes language providing that approved programs for adult education may assess students up to $6 per credit hour or unit of instruction per semester per student. Removes language requiring an education plan to be established for each adult learning participating in the instructional programs. Requires each adult learner participating in the instructional programs to complete an assessment of foundational skills to appropriately place the adult learner in an instructional program. Makes other and conforming changes.

  RECENT STATUS

4/17/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

4/16/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

4/15/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the School Code. Provides that all mandated categorical programs under the Code and the School Breakfast and Lunch Program Act shall be funded at 100% of their required levels as calculated by the State Board of Education, without proration. Provides that, beginning with Fiscal Year 2027, the General Assembly shall appropriate funds for each fiscal year sufficient to fully reimburse school districts for all services and costs under mandated categorical programs, as required under the Code. Requires the State Board to annually provide to the General Assembly, no later than May 1 of each year, the appropriation levels needed to fully fund mandated categorical grant funding for the upcoming fiscal year. With respect to the evidence-based funding formula, provides that the State shall increase annual new State funds to ensure full funding of the formula beginning with Fiscal Year 2027. Requires the State Board to annually determine and report the amount necessary to bring all Tier 1 and Tier 2 organizational units to 100% of their adequacy targets, and requires the General Assembly to appropriate sufficient funds to meet this requirement no later than Fiscal Year 2027. Provides that no organizational unit may receive less than the amount determined under the formula in any fiscal year. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

5/5/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Critical Health Problems and Comprehensive Health Education Act of the School Code. Requires the program to include instruction on gambling and gambling disorders. Provides that instruction on gambling and gambling disorders shall include classroom instruction in grades 5 through 12, and include, at a minimum: the nature and addictive potential of gambling; the risks associated with digital gaming mechanics; the identification of gaming disorders and their impact on mental and physical health; and information on how and where to find specialized treatment and resources in the State for gambling disorders. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

3/27/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

2/24/2026 - To Mandates

Amends the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act. Provides that the Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board shall develop a policy to foster the reverse transfer of credit for any student who has accumulated at least 30 (rather than 15) hours of academic credit at a community college and a sufficient number of hours of academic credit at a State university in the prescribed courses necessary to meet a community college's requirements to be awarded an associate degree. Provides that each State university shall automatically notify any transfer student accepted to the State university with at least 30 hours of academic credit at a community college of the option for the reverse transfer of credit within the student's first term of enrollment. Provides that a community college shall provide notification to a student wishing to reverse transfer earned academic credit with instructions on application for conferral of an associate degree. Provides that a community college or State university may not charge an application, transfer evaluation, or graduation fee or any other fee associated with conferral of an associate degree through reverse transfer. Provides that a community college shall include each student awarded an associate degree through reverse transfer within its student information system. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following change. Provides that each State university shall automatically provide, to any transfer student who is accepted to the State university with at least 30 hours of academic credit at a community college, notice of the option for the reverse transfer of credit after the transfer student has earned a combined total of 60 hours of academic credit at the community college and the State university. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/21/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/21/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 108-000-000

5/21/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 108-000-000.

Creates the Hispanic-Serving Institutions Task Force Act. Creates the Hispanic-Serving Institutions Task Force. Sets forth provisions regarding administrative support, membership, compensation, meetings, and hearings. Requires the Task Force to assess the current landscape of Hispanic-serving institutions and emerging Hispanic-serving institutions in the State; identify barriers to student access, retention, and completion; review existing State policies and accountability frameworks to determine their impact on Hispanic-serving institutions and their students' success; examine best practices from other states related to supporting Hispanic-serving institutions; develop recommendations to improve access to and success in higher education for students, strengthen institutional capacity, improve coordination between State agencies and Hispanic-serving institutions, align Hispanic-serving institutions' efforts with State workforce and economic development priorities, and consider the feasibility of creating a permanent State initiative, designation, or funding mechanism to support Hispanic-serving institutions. Requires the Task Force to submit a written report to the Governor and the General Assembly on the Task Force's findings and recommendations for legislative, administrative, or budgetary action. Requires the Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board to each post the report on their respective public websites. Dissolves the Task Force upon the submission of its report to the Governor and General Assembly. Repeals the Act on January 1, 2029. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/19/2026 - Senate Appropriations- Education

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Amends the Interscholastic Athletic Organization Act. Provides that the Illinois High School Association and the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Department of Public Health, the Illinois Athletic Trainers Association, and the National Institutes of Health, may develop and implement eligibility standards for public and nonpublic schools and institutions of higher education to obtain a Safe Sports School Seal. Sets forth standards to receive the Safe Sports School Seal, and provides for application. Grants rulemaking authority to the State Board of Education. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

4/24/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

3/27/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026

3/13/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026

Amends the School Code. Provides that a truant minor may not be administratively withdrawn (rather than expelled) for nonattendance unless he or she has accrued 15 consecutive days of absences without valid cause and the student cannot be located by the school district or the school district has located the student but cannot, after exhausting all available supportive services, compel the student to return to school. Requires a school district to make at least 3 documented attempts to notify the parent or guardian of its intent to administratively withdraw a student prior to withdrawing the student. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/22/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 095-005-000

5/22/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 095-000-000.

Appropriates $40,000,000 to the State Board of Education for the State English learner grant program. Effective July 1, 2026.

  RECENT STATUS

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

2/24/2026 - Assigned to Senate Appropriations- Education

Amends the Transitional Bilingual Education Article of the School Code. Subject to appropriation, requires the State Board of Education to establish and implement an English Learner Grant Program to support school districts' English learner programs. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Creates the Engineering Students of Illinois Scholarship Act. Creates the Engineering Students of Illinois Scholarship Program, to be administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, to provide scholarship assistance until July 1, 2031 to eligible students for engineering-related study at a public university who agree to work as an engineer for the Department of Transportation for a period of not less than 3 years. Allows the Commission to award scholarships to pay the tuition and fees of a student enrolled in an approved program of professional engineering education for the equivalent of 8 semesters or 16 quarters of full-time enrollment. Provides for an additional stipend in an amount not to exceed $10,000. Establishes the total amount of scholarship assistance, the application process, eligibility requirements, and payments and repayments. Amends the Board of Higher Education Act to require the Board of Higher Education to establish and administer a competitive grant program for public institutions of higher education that award degrees in engineering. Repeals the Act on July 1, 2032.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In a provision regarding endorsements on Professional Educator Licenses, provides for a special education endorsement in the area of deaf-hard of hearing with sign proficiency.

  RECENT STATUS

5/8/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/7/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

5/6/2026 - Senate Bills on Third Reading

Amends the School Code. Creates the Substitute Teacher Background Check Task Force to research and identify paths through legislation, rules, and communication processes to expedite the background check process and provide reciprocity concerning background checks for licensed substitute teachers in the State to teach in school districts across Regional Offices of Education jurisdictions without having to complete multiple background checks. Sets forth meeting requirements, membership, administrative support, and compensation. Requires the Task Force to submit its findings in a report on or before October 31, 2026 to the State Board of Education and the General Assembly. Dissolves the Task Force upon submission of its report. Effective immediately.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

4/24/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 15, 2026

Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. In a provision concerning the contribution required to establish service credit for certain service as a teacher or administrator employed by a private school recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education, changes the amount of the interest payment required to establish that service credit from interest at the actuarially assumed rate to regular interest.

  RECENT STATUS

5/22/2026 - Passed Both Houses

5/22/2026 - Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 096-000-000

5/22/2026 - THIRD READING Passed Third Reading in the House by 096-000-000.

Amends the Courses of Study Article of the School Code. With respect to the requirement that, beginning with the 2028-2029 school year, each pupil entering the 9th grade must, as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma, successfully complete 2 years of foreign language courses, requires a high school to offer 2 years of foreign-language course credit to any student who either (i) successfully passes a standardized test of language proficiency for a language other than English at the level required for the State Seal of Biliteracy or (ii) presents an official transcript demonstrating completion of 2 years of high-school equivalency in which the language of instruction was in a language other than English.

  RECENT STATUS

6/1/2026 - Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

5/22/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 31, 2026

5/15/2026 - Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 - Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Charter Schools Law of the School Code. Provides that on July 1, 2027, any charter school (i) that is authorized by the State Board of Education, (ii) that is located outside of the Chicago school district, and (iii) whose authorization allows for the charter school to enroll students who reside within the geographic boundaries of more than one school district or to enroll students who reside within the geographic boundaries of a school district that has a student enrollment of at least 29,000 students shall have the charter school's authorization transferred to the school board or boards of the districts from which the charter school draws enrollment. Provides that all charter contract terms shall remain in full force and effect unless amended by mutual agreement of the parties, except that the term of the contract shall be 7 years starting July 1, 2027. Provides that if a State-authorized charter school that is subject to transfer is authorized to enroll students from more than one school district, the school boards of the school districts from which the charter school draws enrollment must establish a joint charter management team that consists of, at minimum, one administrator from each school district to develop and execute a charter oversight plan that is submitted to the State Board as part of the charter certification process. Allows the State Board to adopt any rules that may be necessary to implement the provisions of the amendatory Act. Makes other changes.

  RECENT STATUS

5/29/2026 - Committee/Final Action Deadline Extended-9(b) May 31, 2026

5/29/2026 - Motion to Suspend Rule 21 - Prevailed 074-038-001

5/29/2026 - Motion Filed to Suspend Rule 21 Elementary & Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing & Charter Schools; Rep. Katie Stuart

Recognizes and affirms the profound importance of service animals in supporting the safety, health, independence, and academic success of students with disabilities across Illinois. Encourages all Illinois school districts to continue fostering respect for individuals who use service animals and to promote awareness of the rights and responsibilities established under federal and state law. Urges state agencies, including the Illinois State Board of Education, to review existing policies, administrative rules, oversight practices, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that all Illinois schools fully comply with disability rights laws governing service-animal access, including appropriate staff training, consistent implementation, and timely resolution of barriers or complaints.

  RECENT STATUS

5/29/2026 - RESOLUTION ADOPTED Adopted by Voice Vote.

5/29/2026 - Resolutions Secretary's Desk

5/28/2026 - Resolutions Order of Resolutions

Declares March 2026 as Illinois Whole Child Month to recognize the value of assuring that each student is challenged, supported, healthy, safe, and engaged. Urges parents, educators, and community members to support a whole child approach to education for each student. Urges every school in Illinois to celebrate Whole Child Month by adopting at least one of the whole child tenets to promote and encourage throughout the month.

  RECENT STATUS

3/26/2026 - RESOLUTION ADOPTED Adopted by Voice Vote.

3/26/2026 - Resolutions Secretary's Desk

3/25/2026 - Resolutions Secretary's Desk