Jones Determined to Expand Educational Opportunities for Working Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As higher education costs continue to rise, state Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Calumet City, will use his appointment as chairperson of the House Community College Access and Affordability Committee to advocate for the creation of a free community college program here in Illinois.

“Many working families in my district simply cannot afford the rising costs of higher education,” Jones said. “No child should be denied the dream of being able to further their schooling simply because they lack the financial resources.”

Jones understands how important it is for Illinois have an educated workforce for the future. Jones is introducing legislation to create a free community college program. The program would help thousands of students across Illinois attend community college free of charge, drawing funds from banks and credit unions. Jones believes all students deserve access to opportunity and education and in a time of a budget crisis, his proposal will help more students get in the door.

Jones has also been appointed as vice chairperson of the Labor and Commerce Committee for the upcoming legislative session and will serve as a voting member on the Appropriations-Higher Education Committee, Appropriations-Public Safety Committee, Judiciary – Civil Committee, Public Utilities Committee.

“I will be a strong voice on the Appropriations-Higher Education Committee for increasing our investment in valuable programs like the MAP Grant program and will oppose efforts to slash funding for our public colleges and universities,” Jones said. “Protecting and expanding these programs will helps us lift up working families and create a workforce that can compete in a global economy.”