HB 120

Abstract

Amends the School Code and various Acts relating to the governance of public universities and community colleges in Illinois. Provides that the governing board of each school district, public university, and community college district must allow a student athlete to modify his or her athletic or team uniform for the purpose of modesty in clothing or attire that is in accordance with the requirements of his or her religion. Provides that a modification to the uniform may include, but is not limited to, the wearing of a hijab, an undershirt, or leggings. Provides that the student is responsible for all costs associated with the modification of the uniform, but allows a school or institution of higher education to provide the modification to its students. Provides that the school or the institution must approve the request from a student to modify the uniform to ensure that the modification does not pose a safety hazard to the student or to other athletes or players. Sets forth requirements for modified headgear. Effective immediately. House Committee Amendment No. 1 Adds reference to: 105 ILCS 5/22-90 new 105 ILCS 5/27A-5 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the contents of the bill with the following changes. Provides that the governing board must also allow a modification for the purpose of modesty in clothing or attire that is in accordance with his or her cultural values or modesty preferences. Removes language that provides that the request from a student to modify his or her athletic or team uniform must be approved by the governing board and the board shall reasonably accommodate the student's request. Provides instead that the student shall not be required to receive prior approval from the governing board for the modification. Provides that recognized nonpublic schools and charter schools must also allow a student athlete to modify his or her athletic or team uniform for the purpose of modesty in clothing or attire that is in accordance with the requirements of his or her religion or his or her cultural values or modesty preferences. Effective immediately.