SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s bill to disconnect Illinois adult education funding from federal rules passed the Senate Thursday.
“Adult education programs need to be seen as necessary, not optional,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Education institutions continue to be pressured by the Trump administration and Illinois needs to stand up for its adult learners.”
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.
“Illinois needs to be resisting federal overreach, this bill makes it so our laws continue to foster effective access to adult education,” said Guzmán. “We need to make sure services are not disrupted because of federal chaos, bigotry and ineptitude.”
House Bill 5135 has passed the Senate and heads to the governor's desk.
