IL SJR0088

Board of Higher Education shall establish a Higher Education Finance Study Commission comprised of 11 members: 2 senators, 2 representatives, and 7 members appointed by the Board representing higher education stakeholders and finance experts.

Commission shall study state higher education funding history, compare Illinois funding with other states, analyze productivity metrics, and review tuition and financial aid policies affecting degree completion.

Commission shall examine best practices from other states like Ohio and Indiana for incentivizing certificate and degree completion, and consider alternative funding mechanisms to advance Illinois Public Agenda goals.

Commission shall consult with out-of-state higher education experts and report findings and recommendations to the Board of Higher Education, Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Student Assistance Commission, General Assembly, and Governor by December 1, 2010.

Background: Illinois higher education funding in FY2010 was $592 million (26% below FY2002 inflation-adjusted levels), tuition increased 86% at public universities and 52% at community colleges between FY2004-FY2010, and only 40.8% of Illinois adults held college degrees versus 55% in best-performing countries.