Reitz-Backed Effort to Expand Adult Vocational Training Going into Effect

RED BUD, Ill. – A new law backed by state Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, granting more education funding to adults getting vocational training will go into effect Jan. 1 of next year.

“I want to help put our community back to work,” Reitz said. “Vocational jobs are sustainable, good-paying positions that will be the foundation of the stronger Illinois we are working to build together. Any person who is putting in the time and effort to learn a trade skill they can use to support a family shouldn’t have to struggle to afford it.”

Reitz backed Senate Bill 1167, which is going into effect Jan. 1 of 2020. Reitz’s law aims to help adults learning vocation training by providing grant scholarships to adults attending a vocational job program. To be eligible, applicants have to be over 30 and actively seeking a vocational degree. This financial backing is needed, especially in Illinois. A 2017 Urban Institute study found over 20% of students enrolled in Illinois vocational schools regularly went without food.

“Committed adults want to create a better life for themselves and their loved ones, but first they need the skills and training to enter these technical fields,” Reitz said. “This law is going remove barriers standing in the way of people trying to earn their place in the world through hard work, and help all Illinoisans get the future they deserve.”