HB0040 Summary

• Beginning with the 2019-2020 school year, school boards must provide free transportation to and from assigned public schools for any pupil who possesses a valid school identification card issued by that school.

• Maintains existing transportation requirements for pupils residing 1.5 miles or more from their assigned school, except where adequate public transportation is available.

• School boards may provide transportation to pupils within 1.5 miles of school when walking poses serious safety hazards due to vehicular traffic or rail crossings, subject to guidelines from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

• Establishes that school boards must conduct studies on alleged safety hazards upon written petition from parents or guardians, with the Department of Transportation reviewing findings within 30 days.

• Takes effect July 1, 2019; includes legislative finding that every child in Illinois is entitled to free transportation to their school as part of their public education entitlement.