IL HB5488

Permits middle and high school students one excused school day per year to participate in a civic event, subject to State Board of Education guidelines and school board requirements for advance notice and documentation.

Defines "civic event" as an event sponsored by a non-profit organization or governmental entity open to the public, including artistic or cultural performances and educational gatherings that support the sponsoring organization's mission.

Adds attendance at a civic event to the list of valid causes for absence under the truancy statute, allowing such absences to count toward the definition of "valid cause" rather than contributing to truant status.

Requires the State Board of Education to establish guidelines for civic event absences and allows school boards to require reasonable advance notice and proof of participation.