05/28/2026
What happened in Connecticut with H.B. 5468 is deeply concerning. This new law, requiring DCFS background checks for every parent before they can homeschool, marks a dramatic shift away from the freedoms families in Connecticut have long relied on. It’s a sobering reminder that homeschool freedom is never guaranteed, and that vigilance matters.
As Homeschool South Dakota, we’re watching closely. This is exactly the kind of overreach that can happen anywhere, and we remain diligent, informed, and engaged. Our hearts and prayers are with Connecticut families as they navigate this new reality.
Update on H.B. 5468: Yesterday, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed this terrible bill into law, marking a notable turning point in homeschool freedom: https://hslda.org/post/hb-5468
H.B. 5468 profoundly transforms Connecticut from a state where parents had significant freedom, to the only state that imposes mandatory background checks by DCFS on every parent before they can homeschool. Not after evidence of abuse. Not in response to a specific concern. But as a condition of carrying out a basic responsibility of parenthood—choosing the best education for your child.
The signing of H.B. 5468 marks the first regression of homeschool freedom in the modern homeschool movement.
While we are deeply disappointed by this legislation, the battle is not over. We have been working hand-in hand with our allies Connecticut to oppose this bill since it was introduced and will continue to pursue appropriate legal action now that it has been signed into law.
Opponents of homeschool freedom in other states could certainly be emboldened by Connecticut, and redouble their attempts to add layers of regulation, restriction and bureaucracy to homeschooling families.
When HSLDA was founded over 40 years ago, homeschooling was illegal in most of the nation. Parents were regularly threatened with arrest, and children were threatened with removal from the safety of their homes and forced enrollment in public schools.
This is a sober reminder that freedom cannot be taken for granted. While H.B. 5468 is a setback, our work—in partnership with many of you—continues. We remain committed to standing beside courageous parents in defense of homeschool freedom for generations to come.
