IL HB3807

Establishes the Illinois Trades Retention and Development Encouragement (ITRADE) Grant Program to provide financial assistance to students pursuing associate degrees or certificates in trades fields such as electrical work, plumbing, masonry, steel working, fabrication, or construction

Grants cover up to full tuition and fees at public community colleges, with equivalent rates set by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission for private institutions; maximum duration is 4 semesters or 6 quarters

Recipients must sign an agreement to work in Illinois in a qualifying trade job for one year per year of grant assistance received; failure to comply requires repayment at 5% interest

Program prioritizes applicants demonstrating financial need, minority students, and those showing academic excellence; creates a dedicated fund that can receive both public and private contributions

Program begins no earlier than the 2026-2027 academic year and grants may be awarded through the 2032-2033 academic year; effective date is January 1, 2026