IL HB4143

School districts and private schools may discontinue or modify mandates if either: (i) a separate State appropriation does not fully fund the mandate, or (ii) the mandate does not improve educational outcomes based on validated educational studies.

School boards must give notice on their agenda of intent to discontinue or modify a mandate at 2 successive board meetings at least 13 days but not more than 60 days apart, allow public testimony, and vote on the decision.

School boards must notify the regional superintendent by February 15 of their decision to discontinue or modify a mandate; the regional superintendent must hold a public hearing and respond by March 30 with written reasons for approval or denial.

Regional superintendent approval is automatic unless they demonstrate the mandate is fully funded by separate State appropriation or improves educational outcomes through objective evidence; approval grants relief for one school year (if unfunded) or five school years (if ineffective).

School districts or residents may appeal the regional superintendent's denial to the State Superintendent by April 15; the State Superintendent must decide by May 15 and grants the same relief periods if approval occurs.