Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill that would protect students and their schools from being "negatively impacted" if they choose not to take state assessment tests.
The measure allows students to opt out of a test if they have a request in writing from a parent or guardian.
The legislation comes after Chicago Public Schools initially refused to implement new standardized tests in all of its schools this year. The Illinois State Board of Education threatened to withhold funding and CPS ultimately administered the tests.
The exams are based on Common Core standards and have sparked a national debate about their benefit to schools.
Gov. Bruce Rauner's education secretary warns the legislation could cost Illinois $1 billion a year in federal aid.
