Illinois will soon prohibit corporal punishment in all schools, becoming the fifth state to do so. Legislation signed by Gov. JB Pritzker extends a 30-year ban on physical punishment in public schools to include private institutions. This measure, effective in January, aligns Illinois with New Jersey, Iowa, Maryland, and New York in banning practices such as paddling, spanking, and hitting.
State Rep. Margaret Croke, spurred by the American Association of Pediatrics' call to end corporal punishment, championed the move. Highlighting disparities, the association notes the practice disproportionately impacts Black males and students with disabilities, and can cause behavioral and mental health issues. Croke cited Missouri's Cassville School District, which reinstated corporal punishment as an opt-in for parents, as a case that reinforced her stance.
The World Health Organization and the United Nations denounce corporal punishment, considering it a violation of children's rights. Despite studies showing its ineffectiveness, it's still legal in 17 US states, though often restricted for students with disabilities. US Sen. Chris Murphy and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin have pushed for a federal ban, but the legislation remains stalled. Croke says Illinois' move sends a clear message: "It never was going to be OK to inflict harm or pain on a child." The law does not pertain to home schools. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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