IL HB0169

Expands religious absence exemptions in Section 26-1 to include religious instruction and observance of religious holidays, removing the requirement for school boards to maintain a mandatory list of excused religious holidays.

Removes language requiring school boards to prescribe specific rules and regulations for religious holiday absences, instead directing district superintendents to develop and distribute procedures for student absences based on religious reasons.

Modifies Section 26-2b to eliminate the condition that religious holiday absence provisions only apply if school board rules from Section 26-1 have been followed, making the accommodations automatic.

Requires students absent for religious reasons to provide notice to the school principal not exceeding 5 days prior to the absence, and removes the requirement for written excuses upon return to school.

Maintains existing protections that students excused for religious absences receive equivalent opportunities to make up exams and assignments without penalty or special fees.