IL HB1378

Establishes the Illinois Graduate and Retain Our Workforce (iGROW) Tech Scholarship Program beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year to recruit and train individuals for high-demand, high-wage technology jobs.

Awards scholarships up to full tuition, fees, and room and board costs at public institutions (or equivalent rate at private institutions) to eligible applicants pursuing associate or bachelor's degrees in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, and related technology fields.

Requires scholarship recipients to work in Illinois in a technology job directly related to their field of study for a minimum of 2 years or 1 year per year of scholarship received, whichever is greater.

Imposes 5% interest rate and collection fees on scholarships if recipients fail to meet employment obligations, with repayments directed to the State's General Revenue Fund; provides exceptions for graduate students, military service, disability, and job search hardship.

Limits scholarship awards to 8 semesters or 12 quarters per student and authorizes the Commission to use up to 5% of appropriated funds for program administration; sunsets the program after the 2029-30 academic year.