IL HB5159

Requires school boards in various district types to provide or cover transit fees for free transportation for pupils living 1.5 miles or more from their assigned school, effective July 1, 2023.

Removes the existing exemption that allowed school boards to deny transportation if "adequate transportation for the public is available," making free transportation a requirement rather than optional.

Permits school boards to provide transportation to pick-up points within 1.5 miles of students' homes rather than directly to school as an alternative compliance method.

Maintains provisions allowing optional transportation for students within 1.5 miles where walking constitutes a serious safety hazard due to vehicular traffic, rail crossings, or criminal activity patterns, subject to review and approval by the Department of Transportation or State Board of Education.

Does not apply to school districts organized under Article 34 of the School Code.