Iowa Lawmakers Discuss Reducing Home-Schooling Regs.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — While most of the education debate in the state Capitol this year has been on how to improve teachers and enhance schools in Iowa, some lawmakers are focused on a very different educational goal — seeking to reduce regulations for homeschooling families.

 

Language added to an education bill passed in the Republican-controlled state House in February would remove oversight for some households that homeschool their children. The issue could complicate negotiations as Republicans try to reach a compromise with the Democratic-controlled Senate on an education overhaul plan.

Some Republicans have made clear that they will not support the overall education policy plan without these provisions.

Democrats are noncommittal on the homeschooling proposals. Democratic Senate President Pam Jochum of Dubuque says it would “receive a lot of discussion in our caucus.”