Stuart Passes Bill to Expand Access to Community College Programs

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Students interested in community college programs not available at their local community college would be able to attend that program at another community college where that program is available, under a bill just passed by state Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville.

“Illinois students should not be prevented from taking the coursework they need to accomplish their goals simply because the nearest community college does not offer those courses,” Stuart said. “Nobody should be cut off from their goals based on their geographic location because they cannot afford to pay out-of-district tuition.”

Stuart’s House Bill 2503 would allow students to attend community colleges in another district at the in-district rate of tuition charged in their districts provided that they meet certain requirements including that they apply for state and federal aid at the school they attend and obtain a letter from their home school designating them as a participant in the relevant program.

“Helping people pursue their educational goals makes Illinois’ economy and society stronger,” Stuart said. “That’s why my bill removes barriers from the path of hardworking people as they push themselves toward bigger and better futures.”

Stuart’s office is reachable at 618-365-6650 or repkatiestuart@gmail.com.