Connecticut’s New Homeschool Law: What Public Act 26-37 Changes and When
Local Homeschool News: Connecticut
Connecticut has a new homeschool law. Gov. Ned Lamont signed House Bill 5468 in May, and it became Public Act 26-37. The law sets new rules for what it calls “parent-managed learning,” better known as homeschooling (CT News Junkie).
The bill drew strong debate. It passed the House 96-53, mostly along party lines, with four Democrats joining all the Republicans in voting no. The Senate then approved it 22-14 (CT News Junkie).
Here is what changes, and when. Starting with the 2027-28 school year, parents who withdraw a child from public school must sign a withdrawal form in person at the district office. For a homeschool withdrawal, the superintendent must check Department of Children and Families records for every adult in the home. The withdrawal cannot go forward if an adult is on the child abuse and neglect registry or under a current investigation. Starting with the 2028-29 school year, many families must also file a yearly intent to educate form by October 1 (Office of Legislative Research).
What about families already homeschooling? HSLDA says the records check does not apply to children who are already being homeschooled. It also says these families generally will not need the yearly form unless they move to a new school district. HSLDA has filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education and is weighing other legal challenges. It suggests families stay informed and keep good records (HSLDA).
For the full picture, see our Connecticut Homeschool Laws page and our Connecticut Pending Homeschool Legislation post.
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