27-05-2025
Illinois bill to allow bachelor's degrees at community colleges has been revived
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — A bill that would allow Illinois community colleges to offer bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields has been revived in the House.
Some legislators are still against the proposal, citing that the bill would hurt minorities and underfunded universities.
'Chicago State is hemorrhaging, and you, as an administration, are handing them Band-Aids, and they need stitches,' said State Rep. Curtis Tarver II (D). 'Then you come in and you provide a bill that's going to be even worse for them. And I'm saying as we sit here, the Black Caucus has an issue with the bill. The sponsors are obviously aware that it's not a secret.'
The original bill was announced by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker during his annual State of the State budget address and would have expanded access to higher education options for the state's growing workforce.
'Illinois has long been a leader in expanding educational opportunities and preparing our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow,' said Pritzker. 'By allowing our community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees for in-demand career paths, we are making it easier and more affordable for students, particularly working adults in rural communities, to advance their careers while strengthening our state's economy.'
Colleges would be able to offer degrees for 'in-demand' fields such as nursing, advanced manufacturing, and early childhood education.
'Expanding baccalaureate degree programs at community colleges increases access to affordable higher education, allowing more students to earn four-year degrees without the burden of excessive debt. This approach also helps meet workforce demands by equipping graduates with the skills needed in high-demand fields, ultimately strengthening local economies and communities,' said Illinois Community College Board Executive Director Brian Durham.
The proposed legislation builds on the success of similar programs in 24 other states, including California, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Washington, and Florida, where Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) programs have increased degree attainment in key industries.
The initial bill stalled after not being called in the Senate and House committees. The legislation will make a return to the House floor for a full vote.
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