MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS COULD GET A DAY OFF FROM SCHOOL TO ATTEND A CIVIC EVENT UNDER A BILL PASSED BY THE ILLINOIS HOUSE.

THE LEGISLATION CALLS FOR AT LEAST ONE EXCUSED ABSENCE PER YEAR FOR A CIVIC EVENT SAYS REPRESENTATIVE SONYA HARPER OF CHICAGO.

REPRESENTATIVE MARK BATINICK OF PLAINFIELD ARGUED AGAINST THE IDEA.

CRITICS SAYS THE BILL IS TOO BROAD AND COULD EASILY BE ABUSED. IT ONLY APPLIES TO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS.