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House passes tuition-waiver bill for former wards of the state aimed at 18–23-year-olds
Summary
House Bill 64 passed the House 66-9 after sponsor Representative Sidaway argued it provides a safety-net scholarship for long-term wards aged 18–23 once other aid is exhausted. Sponsor and supporters said the measure would aid roughly those students who need help transitioning to postsecondary education.
Representative Sidaway moved to "uncircle" House Bill 64 and introduced the bill as an initiative to help long-term wards of the state who reach majority at 18. Sidaway said the bill targets young people who, after emancipation, lack family or subsidy supports and who may want to pursue college, trade, or technical education. He told the House there are about 254 young people who will reach the age of majority this year and that last year about 20 of similar youth entered higher education (17 of those received Pell grants, leaving about three who would need state support if the bill applied).
Sponsor Sidaway described DCFS's plan for a board to oversee eligibility and ensure students apply for other aid (Pell grants, scholarships) before receiving state assistance; assistance would serve as a safety net for ages 18–23 who had been wards for at least two years.
Members asked procedural and fiscal questions (Representative Bradshaw asked about committee referral and fiscal note). The House voted and passed HB64 by 66 yes, 9 no and referred the measure to the Senate.
What happens next: HB64 will go to the Senate for further consideration; implementation details and administration would be worked out with DCFS and appropriations if needed.
