Rep. DeLaRosa did not cast vote on SB3070, which offers alternative to foreign language requirement

Rep. Margaret A. DeLaRosa (D-42nd) did not cast a vote on SB3070, legislation that establishes an alternative to foreign language study, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois House. The bill was approved by the House with a 107-0 vote.

The bill's official text summarizes the legislation as: "EDUC-FOREIGN LANG ALTERNATIVE."

The following summary is based on the bill's actual language and may contain interpretation to clarify its provisions.

The legislation modifies Illinois high school graduation and public university admission qualifications by introducing an alternative to foreign language study. Starting with ninth graders in the 2028-29 school year, students must either complete two years of foreign language, including American Sign Language, or finish at least two years of career-oriented coursework approved by the State Board that is eligible for a College and Career Pathway Endorsement. Additionally, public universities would not be allowed to require foreign language courses for graduates of Illinois public high schools unless they accept this endorsement as an equivalent. The act becomes effective as soon as it is enacted.

The journal entry for SB3070 was listed as 'Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed'.

DeLaRosa holds a BS from DePaul University.

A Democrat, DeLaRosa was elected to the Illinois House in 2025 to serve the 42nd District after succeeding Terra Costa Howard.

In Illinois, bills proceed through a multi-step legislative process, starting with introduction in either the House or Senate, followed by committee consideration, floor debates, and votes in both chambers. Only a small percentage of the thousands of bills filed during each biennial General Assembly make it through these stages to become law.