Thousands of homeschooling families packed the Illinois State Capitol this week to protest House Bill 2827, which advanced out of the Education Policy Committee on an 8-4 vote with all House Republicans voting against it. 

Known as the “Homeschool Act,” House Bill 2827 would impose new regulations on homeschooling families, including mandatory forms, educational portfolios, and potential criminal penalties for non-compliance.

The bill has sparked widespread concern among parents who view it as a direct attack on their rights to educate their children without government interference. Opponents argue that it would undermine parental control and open the door for further restrictions on homeschooling.

According to Illinois Senate Republicans, the bill threatens to undermine the freedoms of parents who choose homeschooling, with many concerned it marks the beginning of broader government intrusion into private education.