IL SB3771

Expands educational grants for exonerated persons (those pardoned for innocence or granted certificates of innocence) to include their dependents (spouses, natural children, adopted children, or children in legal custody)

Beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year, extends grant eligibility to private, not-for-profit colleges and universities in Illinois approved for the Monetary Award Program, in addition to public institutions

Grants at private institutions are capped at the maximum amount payable for the most expensive comparable program at a public college or university in the state

Allows exonerated persons to designate one or more dependents to use any unexpended portion of their educational benefit, with combined usage not exceeding the total benefit available (up to 8 semesters or 12 quarters)

Removes Illinois residency requirement for grant applicants and allows the Commission to prioritize exonerated persons over dependents if funding is insufficient