A new bill introduced by Illinois Representative Jed Davis (R – 75) seeks to establish local advisory committees within school districts and regional cooperative programs that provide special education services. 

House Bill 1106, also known as the Local Advisory Committees on Special Education Act, lies in its mandate for school districts to form local advisory committees on special education if more than three parents or guardians of students receiving special education services request one. This provision ensures that a formal mechanism exists for parents to voice their concerns and contribute to the decision-making processes within their local school systems.

Key Features of the Proposed Legislation:

• Parent Majority: The bill stipulates that parents or guardians of students with disabilities must constitute a majority of the local advisory committee’s membership, with at least 50% of that majority being directly selected by fellow parents or guardians.
• Diverse Representation: In addition to parents, the committees must include individuals with disabilities, public school administrators, special education teachers, and other community members.
• Advisory Role: The responsibilities of the local advisory committees include providing recommendations on unmet needs, reviewing school improvement plans, monitoring compliance with special education laws, and providing input on funding applications.
• District Support: School districts are required to provide logistical and technical support to the committees, including training and access to relevant data, while adhering to confidentiality laws.
• Open Meetings: All committee meetings must be publicly announced, open to the public, and follow the Open Meetings Act, ensuring transparency and community involvement.

Currently, the bill is in the Rules Committee.