IL HR0314

Acknowledges the Illinois constitutional requirement for the state to provide an efficient system of high-quality public education and recognize education as a fundamental goal.

Establishes that the foundation level for K-12 per-pupil funding has remained at $6,119 since 2009-2010, despite rising education costs, with the Education Funding Advisory Board recommending an increase to $9,204 for Fiscal Year 2016.

Cites evidence that higher education levels correlate with improved employment outcomes, longer lifespans, increased voter participation, reduced incarceration rates, and lower public health costs.

Notes Illinois currently ranks last in state share of P-12 education funding and that increased education investment generates at least $7 in tax revenue for every $1 invested in pre-kindergarten education.

Urges the General Assembly to make education a budget priority in Fiscal Year 2018 and fully fund elementary and secondary education, and encourages the business community to advocate for a high-quality education system in Illinois.