Bill would bar questions about Illinois students' crimes

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Legislation now being considered by the Illinois General Assembly would bar colleges from asking prospective students whether they have been convicted of crimes.

According to The News-Gazette (http://bit.ly/1VxQ122 ), the bill sponsored by Rep. Barbara Wheeler would allow a school to inquire about criminal backgrounds only after students have been admitted.

The Crystal Lake Republican says the bill would make it easier for someone who committed a crime to get into college and turn their life around.

Don Sevener is a lobbyist for Northern Illinois University. He said the school opposes the bill because it would prevent schools from taking steps to protect people already on campus.

The House Higher Education Committee approved the bill on a 16-1 vote Tuesday. It next moves to the full House.

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The bill: HB4446

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Information from: The News-Gazette, http://www.news-gazette.com