IL HR0897

Illinois Student Assistance Commission shall convene a task force to develop new rules for the Monetary Award Program (MAP) with the goal of improving student outcomes.

Task force membership includes representatives from public universities, community colleges, private non-profit institutions, proprietary institutions, financial aid associations, current MAP grant recipients, the Illinois Community College Board, Board of Higher Education, Office of the Lieutenant Governor, and ISAC leadership.

Task force shall hold public meetings, seek stakeholder input, and develop rules designed to improve state-institution partnerships, help MAP recipients complete degree programs, and recognize institutional diversity without altering institutional missions.

New rules should consider tying institutional MAP eligibility to student progress and degree completion rates, linking student eligibility to demonstrated academic success, and requiring institutions to provide their own financial aid to MAP students.

Task force must report findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2013, with new eligibility criteria not taking effect before Fiscal Year 2015.