This primer for state legislators discusses reasons for the current increase in home schooling and describes legislative actions regulating home schooling. In regards to guidelines for making workable laws regarding home schooling, attention is given to: (1) requiring communication between parent and school; (2) establishing minimum standards for home schools; (3) establishing accountability procedures and mechanisms for evaluating a student's progress; and (4) imposing sanctions on home schools that fail to comply with the home schooling laws. Some additional provisions are specified. Instances of state legislation that illustrate the guidelines are described. (RH)