The Waterbury Times|Updated Apr 23, 2026 7:25am

Updated Bill Language Introduced for Connecticut H.B. 5468 in Appropriations Committee

Hartford- The Connecticut Appropriations Committee has advanced a revised version of House Bill 5468, modifying earlier provisions related to homeschooling oversight and reporting requirements.

According to public statements circulated by the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), the updated draft removes a previously proposed annual portfolio requirement. However, several provisions remain in the revised language that have drawn attention from homeschooling advocates.

Key provisions in the revised bill include:

• Requirement for Department of Children and Families (DCF) records checks for all adults residing in a home where homeschooling is conducted
• Inclusion of individuals under investigation in addition to substantiated cases in review criteria
• Authorization for the state to restrict or prohibit homeschooling in certain circumstances
• Expanded reporting responsibilities involving local school districts and the Connecticut Department of Education
• Continued requirement for families to maintain educational records in accordance with state guidance
• Updated terminology describing homeschooling as “parent-managed learning”

The bill’s revised language follows earlier debate over proposed oversight measures, including recordkeeping requirements that were modified in the current version.

Next steps in the legislative process

With approval from the Appropriations Committee, H.B. 5468 now moves forward to consideration by the full House of Representatives for further debate and a potential vote.

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***Original Reporting***

The Waterbury Times|Published Mar 12, 2026

Hartford- A controversial proposal to increase oversight of homeschooling in Connecticut drew a full house Wednesday at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford, where dozens of residents, parents, and advocates turned out to weigh in on House Bill 5468. The bill, which would require increased reporting to state authorities and documentation of “equivalent instruction” for homeschooled children, has become a flashpoint for families and educators across the state.

CT Urban Affairs-Bridgeport • Hartford • New Haven

Wednesday’s hearing highlighted the sharp divide between supporters, who say the bill ensures children don’t fall through the cracks, and opponents, who view it as government overreach into private education. The discussion was part of a growing state conversation over how to balance child safety with parental rights—a debate that has included high-profile cases, some involving Waterbury families, that have drawn public attention in recent years.

Hear what a Local Resident how to say about H.B. 5468 here

CT H.B. 5468 Protecting Homeschooling Rights in Connecticut or Government Overreach?

HB 5468 was first covered by The Waterbury Times on March 10, 2026, in an editorial/opinion piece, (see above) when the bill was introduced and referred to the Education Committee. Wednesday’s hearing provided residents and lawmakers an opportunity to testify and ask questions about the bill’s implementation and potential impact on families.

Other professional outlets, including the Hartford Courant, have also reported on the statewide debate surrounding HB 5468, noting the large turnout and passionate testimony at the hearing.

The Education Committee will now review the testimony and decide whether to advance HB 5468 to the House floor, amend it, or allow it to stall in committee.

The Waterbury Times will continue to follow this story closely, keeping residents informed about legislative decisions that affect children, families, and local communities.

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