SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans across the state are struggling to make ends meet, including university students. To help students find assistance programs, State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) is sponsoring a measure to require universities to designate a Benefits Navigator.

“There are so many assistance programs available that are underutilized,” Pacione-Zayas said. “Ensuring students are aware of their options to get support is important, especially for individuals struggling to make ends meet while in college.”

House Bill 4201 requires the each public university and community college in Illinois to designate a Benefits Navigator to assist students in identifying and applying for benefit programs and campus-wide and community assistance programs.

Additionally, the Benefits Navigator will participate in a statewide consortium with navigators from other universities and colleges to develop best practices and coordinate information.

“This legislation will ensure someone on campus is available to help students get the support they need to succeed,” Pacione-Zayas said. “From assisting students apply for child care funding to finding scholarship opportunities, the Benefits Navigator will be there to help.”

HB 4201 passed the Senate Higher Education Committee Tuesday and goes to the Senate floor for full consideration.

###