“I applaud Governor Quinn for signing this legislation today, ending a program that unfortunately became synonymous with abuse.” – Senator Linda Holmes

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Governor Quinn signed legislation today ending the troubled legislative scholarship program.  House Bill 3810 abolishes the tuition waiver program and sets up a task force to review and evaluate other tuition and fee waiver programs offered by universities in Illinois. 

State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) ended her participation in the program in January.    

“I applaud Governor Quinn for signing this legislation today, ending a program that unfortunately became synonymous with abuse,” Senator Holmes said.  “I am proud of the many students in my district that worked hard and benefited from this program.  And it is unfortunate that students could not continue to utilize this program.  However with allegations of abuse by some legislators, ending the program is a necessary step to restore faith and integrity in state government.”

Prior to her decision to opt out of the program, Holmes formed a separate committee that ensured she was kept out of the process. The scholarships helped a number of deserving students in her district, Holmes said, but the program has become too tainted to continue in Illinois.

“Illinois still faces some real challenges, including ensuring we continue to live within our means, create an environment ripe for job creation, and shoring up our pension systems for the future,” Holmes continued.  “I am looking forward to continuing to work on these issues without the distraction this program has caused.”

House Bill 3810 passed the Senate in early May and the House later that month.