IL HB4918

Amends the School Code to allow school districts to pay public transit fees for pupils as an alternative to providing free transportation, rather than exempting pupils when adequate public transportation is available.

Removes the restriction that prevented free transportation for pupils within 1.5 miles of school when walking constitutes a serious hazard to safety due to vehicular traffic, rail crossings, or criminal activity if adequate public transportation exists.

Expands allowable transportation costs under Section 29-5 to include expenditures for paying public transit fees of pupils under Section 29-3, making these costs eligible for state reimbursement.

Changes technical language in Section 12-11.5 regarding high school transportation, allowing districts to either provide direct transportation or pay public transit fees for eligible students.

Effective July 1, 2025.