HB 5195

Abstract

Amends the Transportation Article of the School Code. Provides that each school board may provide free transportation for any pupil residing within 1 1/2 miles from the school attended where conditions are such that walking, either to or from the school to which a pupil is assigned for attendance or to or from a pick-up point or bus stop, constitutes a serious hazard to the safety of the pupil due to a course or pattern of criminal activity, as defined in the Illinois Streetgang Terrorism Omnibus Prevention Act. Provides for the adoption of guidelines by the local law enforcement agency as to what constitutes a serious safety hazard due to a course or pattern of criminal activity. Provides that the State Board of Education, in consultation with the local law enforcement agency, shall review the findings of the school board concerning a course or pattern of criminal activity and shall approve or disapprove the school board's determination that a serious safety hazard exists within 30 days after the school board submits its findings to the State Board. Authorizes the local law enforcement agency to determine what constitutes a course or pattern of criminal activity. Makes related changes. Provides that the changes made by the amendatory Act do not apply to the Chicago school district. Effective immediately.