SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s latest effort to decouple Illinois adult education funding from federal rules passed the Senate Higher Education Committee Wednesday.
“Many Illinois residents benefit from adult education courses and Illinoisans should have control over how our state funds these programs,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Higher education continues to be under assault while the Trump administration is in power – and this is not a path we will willingly follow.”
The measure comes as the Trump administration continues to threaten education funding and demand an unprecedented role in university admission, curriculum and operations. Without action from the state, federal threats to education programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act could limit Illinois residents’ access to higher education and key adult education programs.
Guzmán’s legislation would clarify and strengthen the administration of state-funded adult education programs in Illinois. The bill would ensure that Illinois law, not the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, governs state-only adult education programs. The state’s matching portion of WIOA funds – currently 25% – would continue to be subject to federal requirements.
Under Guzmán’s initiative, community colleges and educational institutions could use funding for additional purposes, including digital literacy education. The measure would further update eligibility for community college adult education programs to students age 17 and up.
“By preserving access to adult education programs we can continue to bring benefits to adult learners and local economies,” said Guzmán. “Illinois needs to be able to weather the storm of politicization and chaos from the federal administration. Our responsibility is to ensure services are not disrupted for people trying to make themselves and their community better.”
House Bill 5135 has passed the Senate Higher Education Committee on Wednesday.
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