Illinois House committee approves Democratic homeschool oversight bill despite massive opposition

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — An Illinois House committee approved a plan Wednesday to create state oversight for homeschooling after hours of debate.

The proposal could require families to inform school districts if they choose to teach their children at home. Parental figures would also need to verify if they have a high school diploma or GED in order to teach their children.

Democratic sponsors hope this change can prevent abuse within homeschooling.

"Within my Springfield homeschool community, many friends were stuck in similar family cycles of domestic violence, substance abuse, inconsistent educating, and subject to neglect," said former homeschool student Ayla McDonald. "We didn't have knowledge of or access to social service resources and in many cases were misinformed by our parents as to the consequences of seeking outside help."

This bill passed out of the House Education Policy Committee on a 8-4 with one Democratic representative voting present.

Illinois House Republicans and thousands of homeschool advocates are furious that the measure moved out of committee. As of Wednesday morning, there were 48,680 opponents to the legislation.

GOP leaders told reporters that this is a strong example of government overreach.

"Homeschooling is the fastest growing form of education in the United States of America right now and there's a reason for that," said Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Effingham). "People are wanting to escape the failing government schools that's teaching a bunch of nonsense. Let's face it, the results in our schools are dismal right now."

The plan now moves to the House floor for further consideration. However, House Republicans hope they can kill the bill before it goes up for a floor vote.