Greenwood Backed Measure to Help Military Families Becomes Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Public schools will take new steps to accommodate the needs of military families under a new law passed by state Rep. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, granting students excused absences from school when their parents are deployed or on leave.

“The time that members of our armed forces get to spend with their families is sometimes limited and this measure is to allow more opportunities for military families to spend quality time with loved ones,” said Greenwood. “With the school year just beginning it is important that families and school administers are aware that is law took effect and students can be excused from school up to five days when their parent is on leave or scheduled for a deployment.”

Greenwood’s House Bill 3507 will allow students’ ages seven through 17 up to five days of excused absences if their parent is deployed, on leave from, or has returned from military deployment. Currently, students are required to be in attendance during the regular school year, with no exception made for children whose parents are actively serving our country. The bill was signed into law earlier this month, and is now in effect.

“I have the honor and privilege of representing many veterans and servicemen and women, and I want to ensure their children have the opportunity to be with their families,” said Greenwood. “I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support of this legislation but most importantly I want to thank our military families for their dedication and service to our country.”
For more information you can contact Greenwood’s constituent service office at 618-646-9557 or staterepgreenwood@gmail.com.