SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Jacqueline Collins issued the following statement today as Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law her plan to bring civics education to elementary schools:

“An informed and active electorate ready to take on their social responsibilities must have a firm understanding of government and society,” Collins said. “It’s not enough that we teach our children basic skills. We also need to open their eyes to their place in society.”

House Bill 2265 provides that, beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, every public elementary school shall include in its 6th, 7th or 8th grade curriculum at least one semester of civics education.

The new law takes effect July 1, 2020.