IL HB3491

Amends the Private Business and Vocational Schools Act of 2012, the Private College Act, and the Academic Degree Act to define "religious institution" and "religious education."

Exempts any religious institution (broadened from institutions "devoted entirely to religion or theology") from being considered a private business and vocational school and eliminates permit of approval requirements for programs offered by religious institutions.

Prohibits religious institutions from being subject to educational requirements, standards, or demands contained in the Private College Act, the Academic Degree Act, or their respective administrative rules (Part 1030 of Title 23 of the Illinois Administrative Code).

Defines "religious institution" as a private postsecondary educational institution dedicated in its governing documents to religious education and exclusively engaged in religious education, which may operate independently or under control of a church, denomination, or religious hierarchy.

Defines "religious education" as education in primarily religious subjects, which may include secular subjects like business or vocational instruction provided the education incorporates significant religious or faith-based instruction as part of a comprehensive program integrating religion or faith into the student's career or work.