In a major step toward easing the burden on local taxpayers and schools, State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) has been appointed to the newly formed School Mandate Reduction Council, a bipartisan group tasked with streamlining and reducing state mandates placed on Illinois schools.
Senator Lewis, a longtime advocate for fiscal responsibility and efficient governance, says the council’s work is essential to ensuring schools can focus on educating students.
“I’ve always believed that well-intended doesn’t always mean well-executed,” said Lewis. “When the state issues mandates without providing funding, it places an unfair strain on local districts and taxpayers. I’m committed to reviewing every requirement with a simple test: Does it improve the quality of education or keep our students safe? If not, it’s time to rethink it.”
The School Mandate Reduction Council brings together lawmakers and education professionals from across the state. It includes:
- 8 legislators appointed by leaders of the General Assembly
- 21 additional education stakeholders appointed by the State Superintendent, representing teachers, administrators, principals, school boards, special education, and school districts from diverse regions of the state
The council’s charge is to identify outdated, redundant, or overly burdensome mandates, and recommend which should be eliminated, modified, or consolidated without compromising the quality of education or student safety.
Council members will serve without pay and meet at least four times between October 1, 2025, and September 1, 2026. A comprehensive report must be submitted to the General Assembly by October 1, 2026.
“This is about smart reform,” Lewis added. “We can support teachers, protect students, and respect taxpayers all at the same time. I’m honored to be part of a council that’s working toward a more efficient and effective education system for Illinois and property tax relief for taxpayers.”
