IL HB1086

Creates grants for essential workers and their dependents (spouse, children) to attend Illinois public universities and community colleges, covering full tuition and mandatory fees for up to 8 semesters or 12 quarters

Defines essential workers as those in jobs vital to public health, safety, and critical infrastructure, including healthcare workers, child care/school personnel, telecommunications, defense, food/agriculture, transportation, energy, water/wastewater, and law enforcement

Grant funds can be used for undergraduate or graduate study, with no financial need requirement to qualify

Applicants without a high school diploma can use grant funds for GED preparation courses and testing fees through Illinois Community College Board-approved providers

Effective date of July 1, 2023, with funding subject to separate appropriation by the legislature