SPRINGFIELD – Illinois students will now have access to more educational resources and broader opportunities thanks to two laws championed by State Senator Mike Halpin.

“Through these new laws, students will be equipped with opportunities that suit their individual interests and aspirations,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “By breaking down traditional barriers and expanding access to student directory information, we can enable students to explore a broader range of educational options, which will help keep students in Illinois.”

One of the key components of Halpin’s legislation is expanding access to student directory information for public higher education institutions in Illinois. By Jan. 1, 2024, student directory information will be made available electronically through a secure centralized data system for official recruiting representatives of the armed forces and for public higher education institutions in Illinois. Access to this information enables colleges and universities to reach high school students more effectively, at a lower cost, and inform them of educational and career opportunities for their school.

Another integral aspect of the plan is the codifying of an agreement that allows community colleges to share career and technical education programs across institutions and provides students with access to programs that would otherwise be unavailable in their home community college district. Under the new law, if a community college student needs to enroll in a program not offered in their district, the student can attend a recognized public community college in any other district and pay tuition and fees at the rate of the sending college.

House Bill 3759 and House Bill 2503 were signed on Friday. Both laws will take effect Jan. 1, 2024.