PEORIA, IL – As part of her ongoing efforts to assist local schools and students, legislation sponsored by state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) to make it easier for school districts to consolidate was recently signed into law.

“School districts across the state are trying to do more with less,” Gordon-Booth said. “This new law will make it easier for school districts that choose to consolidate. Mergers can allow school districts to share resources, save money, and invest more in their students.”

The Classrooms First Commission was charged with identifying ways for school districts to reduce duplicative administrative spending and increase educational offerings. House Bill 2267 contains three suggestions from the Class Rooms First Commission’s final report.

Under this proposal, non-contiguous school districts within 30 miles of each other would be allowed to consolidate. Schools districts that have an enrollment of fewer than 750 students would be allowed to participate in an expedited dissolution. This would allow school districts would be able to dissolve without a referendum vote. This measure would also permit school districts waiting for school construction funds to delay consolidation until those funds have been awarded.

“This law will not force school districts to consolidate, but it will help school districts that are interested,” Gordon-Booth said. “It is important that lawmakers give school districts and communities the tools they need to make the decisions that are best for them.”

For more information, please contact Rep. Gordon-Booth’s constituent service office at (309) 681-1992 or e-mail her at repjgordon@gmail.com.