IL HB3127

Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act to establish a grant program for essential workers and their dependents, subject to appropriation.

Defines "essential worker" as individuals providing services vital to public health, safety, economic security, and critical infrastructure, including healthcare workers, child care personnel, telecommunications, transportation, energy, law enforcement, and other specified sectors.

Grants may cover up to 8 semesters or 12 quarters of full tuition and mandatory fees at Illinois public universities or community colleges for undergraduate or graduate study on a full or part-time basis.

Applicants do not need to demonstrate financial need and must maintain satisfactory academic progress; grant funds may also cover high school equivalency test costs and fees for applicants without a diploma or equivalency certificate.

Effective July 1, 2021, with the Illinois Higher Education Commission authorized to adopt rules for program implementation and administration.