Governor Ryan Signs Adult Education Bill

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 914 creating the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Adult Education Fund for adult education programs and literacy initiatives.

"This legislation is just one component of my administration's effort to give a greater priority to workforce training and adult education," Governor Ryan said. "Adult Education and Literacy will be a top priority for the Community College Board, and this fund will better position the state to meet the growing adult education and literacy needs of Illinoisans."

Last year, the General Assembly passed legislation that transferred the administration of adult education programs from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to the ICCB. This fund provides for operational expenses and other costs related to adult education programs.

In the final Fiscal Year 2002 budget package, adult education and literacy programs received a 32 percent increase. This additional $9 million is representative of the governor's overall commitment to education. Since taking office, Governor Ryan has committed 51 percent of all new revenue to education and workforce training. That commitment has meant nearly $1.5 billion additional dollars for education and job-training.

"By providing for the skills of our workforce, we are securing Illinois' future as a great place to relocate or expand a business--because our people will be ready for the challenge," Governor Ryan added.

Governor Ryan signed the legislation at a bill signing ceremony at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield.

Senate Bill 914 was sponsored by Senator Laura Kent Donahue R-Quincy and Representatives Judy Erwin, D-Chicago; Gary Forby,D-Benton; David Wirsing,R-Sycamore; Jim Fowler,D-Harrisburg; Monique Davis,D-Chicago and Wyvetter Younge, D-East St. Louis.