IACEA the Voice of Adult Education

Legislative Alert!

Update on Illinois State Budget and State Funding for Adult Education and Family Literacy

On May 31st, the Illinois General Assembly adjourned for the night without passing a full-year budget or a substantial new revenue stream or income tax increase for many statewide programs, including Adult Education and GED testing. SB1197 passed the General Assembly and contains appropriations that are intended to last for only six months. This bill includes 50 percent of the state funding for Adult Education and GED testing. The ICCB is working with the U.S. Department of Education to see how this will affect the federal Adult Education funds and our allocations for fiscal year 2010.

Governor Quinn has indicated that the six-month budget legislation is inadequate, and he has stated that he will not sign the bill. He has urged
the House and the Senate to pass an income tax bill and a full-year budget bill. The legislative leaders continue to meet with the governor. We will monitor the situation and alert you to possible action in order to secure full-year funding for adult education programs.

At this time, it is crucial that you contact the governor and the four leaders involved in making the budget to let them know how important adult
education funding is in Illinois. Also, keep in touch with your representatives and senators, through their local offices, as the plan
develops. IACEA's Legislative Co-Chairs want you to know that the field has done a great job so far, but we must continue our advocacy efforts! Remember - we are the voice of adult education in Illinois.

Click here for the governor's and the four leaders' contact information.

Click on the "Illinois General Assembly" link located in the main menu above for more information on contacting Illinois legislators.