IL HB5195

Amends Illinois School Code Section 29-3 to expand the definition of "serious safety hazard" that qualifies pupils for free transportation to include criminal activity in addition to vehicular traffic and rail crossings.

Defines "course or pattern of criminal activity" by reference to the Illinois Streetgang Terrorism Omnibus Prevention Act and authorizes local law enforcement agencies to determine what constitutes such activity.

Requires school boards to submit findings to the State Board of Education (in consultation with local law enforcement) for review and approval within 30 days when pupils claim serious safety hazards due to criminal activity, mirroring the existing process for traffic and rail crossing hazards.

Extends liability protections to the State Board of Education and local law enforcement agencies in addition to existing protections for school boards and the Department of Transportation for decisions made under this section.

Excludes school districts organized under Article 34 of the School Code from the changes made by this amendatory act.