IL HB4235

Allows eligible applicants (school districts, joint agreements, regional superintendents) to petition the State Board of Education for waivers or modifications of School Code mandates and administrative rules.

Waivers or modifications may be granted when applicants demonstrate they can address the intent of the mandate in a more effective, efficient, or economical manner, or to stimulate innovation and improve student performance.

Prohibits waivers from laws regarding special education, teacher licensure, teacher tenure and seniority, Section 5-2.1, the Every Student Succeeds Act, and (with limited exceptions for teacher shortage areas) subsection (a) of Section 10-20.12a.

Requires applicants to hold a public hearing with notice to the school board, regional superintendent, affected unions, and state legislators at least 7-14 days in advance; the State Board has 45 days to review requests, with approval deemed granted if no disapproval is issued.

Approved waivers may remain in effect for up to 5 school years and may be renewed; the General Assembly may disapprove waivers within 60 days of submission by majority vote in each house.