Illinois Lawmakers Pass Bills on AI Instruction, School Bus Seat Belts
The Illinois Senate has given its approval to several significant bills, marking a crucial step in the state’s legislative process. Among these, a bill aimed at limiting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in community college instruction has garnered considerable attention. House Bill 1859, which passed the Senate with a vote of 46-12, prohibits community colleges from using AI programs as the sole source of instruction for students. While it doesn’t entirely ban the use of AI as an instructional tool, it ensures that human faculty members remain the primary instructors.
The bill’s chief Senate sponsor, Sen. Mike Porfirio, D-Lyons Township, emphasized that the legislation aims to protect the interests of both students and human instructors. “I think if anything we’re guaranteeing that our students receive proper instruction and also that we acknowledge the role that instructors, faculty, staff play in students’ lives,” Porfirio said.
The decision comes at a time when educational institutions across the country are grappling with the ethical implications of AI platforms like ChatGPT and Copilot. While many schools have adopted policies restricting students from using these platforms for assignments, they allow instructors to utilize them as teaching aids.
Another significant bill that cleared the General Assembly focuses on enhancing safety measures on school buses. Senate Bill 191 requires all new school buses manufactured after 2031 to be equipped with lap and shoulder seat belts for all passengers. Rep. Bob Morgan, D-Deerfield, noted that while school buses are already considered safe, the addition of seat belts will further enhance safety. The bill passed with a vote of 83-27 and is awaiting the governor’s signature.
Additionally, the House unanimously passed Senate Bill 1288, which mandates food handlers to undergo educational training on celiac disease and other food allergies. The training will cover symptoms of celiac disease, ways to prevent cross-contamination, and information on various food allergens. Sen. Sally Turner, R-Beason, sponsored the bill, highlighting the importance of food handlers taking allergies seriously.
These legislative developments reflect the state’s efforts to address contemporary issues in education, safety, and public health. As these bills move forward, they are expected to have a significant impact on various aspects of Illinois residents’ lives.
