Bill > HB3065

This bill makes comprehensive changes to several higher education scholarship and loan repayment programs in Illinois, with the primary goal of supporting educators and addressing teacher shortages. The bill modifies the Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois (DFI) Program by updating definitions, eligibility requirements, and administrative procedures for awarding grants. Key changes include redefining "Illinois resident," establishing new requirements for institutional representatives, and creating more structured guidelines for awarding and maintaining scholarships. The bill also revises the Minority Teachers of Illinois scholarship program by removing specific racial minority definitions and introducing new eligibility criteria focused on students from schools with high free/reduced lunch rates or high teacher vacancy rates. Additionally, the bill adjusts other scholarship programs like the Golden Apple Scholars, Post-Master of Social Work School Social Work Professional Educator License scholarships, and the iGROW Tech Scholarship Program, generally removing specific racial minority references and streamlining application and award processes. The changes aim to make these educational support programs more inclusive, transparent, and effective in recruiting and retaining educators and technology professionals in Illinois, with most modifications taking effect for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Education, Government Affairs

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3065&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104