IL SB2091

Establishes the Early Childhood Workforce Free College grant program administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission beginning with the 2019-2020 academic year, providing grants to eligible child care workers pursuing associate or bachelor's degrees.

Eligible applicants must be Illinois residents who have worked in licensed child care or early childhood education settings for at least 2 years (or within the past 5 years) and possess a high school diploma or equivalency certificate.

Grants cover tuition and mandatory fees at public institutions or regionally accredited online early childhood education programs, less other student aid, with additional support available for books, supplies, and fees for students demonstrating additional need.

Creates the Early Childhood Workforce Advisory Committee with 14 voting members appointed by the Illinois Early Learning Council (representing child care providers, unions, advocacy organizations, and education institutions) and ex officio members from state agencies to advise on program implementation and workforce expansion.

Establishes the Early Childhood Workforce Free College Fund as a special state fund to support the grant program, funded through General Assembly appropriations and private donations.