SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner, a strong advocate for agriculture education, passed a measure that would allow any agriculture-related course to satisfy the vocational education requirement for public high school students.

“A lot of kids know early on that they want to have a career in agriculture, whether that’s farming, becoming an agricultural economist, farm manager or researcher,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We should let them take classes that peak their interests, not force them into electives they have no interest in.”

Senate Bill 1605 would clarify in statute that agricultural education, agricultural business or any other agriculture-related course can satisfy the vocational education requirement for public high school students beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Currently, one year of music, art, foreign language, vocational education or speech and debate are required to graduate from high school.

“Agriculture classes give students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and experience in the agriculture industry, which is prominent here in Illinois,” said Rene Barr of Illinois Leadership Council for Agriculture Education. “It’s important for the state to continue encouraging students to learn about agriculture and what the industry has to offer. This is an important measure to achieve that goal.”

Senate Bill 1605 passed the Senate and heads to the House for further consideration.