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Illinois 31st State Senate District
Bond pushes community college grant program
SPRINGFIELD – A new legislative measure designed to assist community college students in continuing their education was sent to Governor Quinn today. State Sen. Michael Bond (D-Grayslake), the bill’s chief sponsor, is confident that the legislation will benefit not only the students, but Illinois’ future as well.
"Many students are deterred from obtaining a college degree because of the substantial cost," Bond said. "But this legislation will allow many community college students to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree in their field of study. Our investment in these individuals will produce a quality workforce for years to come."
Senate Bill 3699 creates the Community College Transfer Grant Program. This program will provide grants of up to $2,000 per year to eligible students who elect to pursue a baccalaureate degree at a public or private university after completing their associate’s degree at a state community college. The bill is based off of a current program in Virginia which provides similar grants to in-state residents who complete their degree at a public two-year institution and then enroll in a four-year institution.
"Our goal is to reduce as many barriers as possible for students wishing to go on to complete a more expensive four-year degree," Bond said. "This program will also benefit working-class families and non-traditional students who are trying to balance their work towards an Associate’s degree at a community college with a full or part-time job, in addition to family commitments."
Multiple requirements must be met in order to apply for the grants. These requirements include receiving an Associate’s degree at an Illinois public community college, demonstrated financial need, maintaining a 3.0 GPA, and satisfying residency requirements. The program will be administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
Having passed both chambers of the legislature, Senate Bill 3699 will now be sent to Governor Quinn for further consideration.
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