Ford to Continue as Chair of House Appropriations-Higher Education Committee

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Looking to expand affordable education opportunities for all Illinois residents, state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, will again lead the House Appropriations-Higher Education Committee for the 104th General Assembly.

“We need to continue to build on efforts to make college more affordable for more Illinois residents,” Ford said. “Not only does getting a degree open more doors of opportunity for people, our colleges and universities are a major economic driver for this state. Few things have as great an impact on the future and direction of our state than higher education funding, and I’m looking forward to ensuring it is responsibly prioritized.”

Last year, the Illinois General Assembly appropriated more than $2.6 billion in state funding toward higher education. Ford helped fight for a $10 million increase toward the Monetary Award Program (MAP), a need-based grant administered through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to help Illinois students pay for college tuition and fees. In total, more than $711 million was dedicated toward MAP Grants in the state budget.

He also spearheaded efforts to secure $10 million for test preparation for public colleges and universities. Additionally, the state directed $50 million toward the merit-based AIM High Grant, and $15.75 million for Golden Apple Scholarships to encourage students to pursue a teaching career.

“There’s no question that Illinois faces significant budgetary challenges, but it’s also clear we need to properly fund our higher education system,” Ford said. “I’m looking forward to engaging with my colleagues on this committee, building consensus and delivering results on the challenges we face. I appreciate Speaker Welch’s confidence in giving me the gavel for this committee, and I look forward to the work ahead.”

For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com.