Pritzker and sponsors say this expansion could give more people access to affordable degrees and address the state's growing workforce needs.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker and state lawmakers are renewing their push to pass a plan allowing Illinois community colleges to offer bachelor's degrees.

Pritzker and sponsors say this expansion could give more people access to affordable degrees and address the state's growing workforce needs. 

The Illinois Community College Board told WAND News this is critical as employers in healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing and education are struggling to find qualified candidates with bachelor's degrees.

"We are looking to live in the workforce gap and drive economic growth with CCB graduates in select fields and empower working adults and their families," said Harper College President Dr. Avis Proctor.

Public universities are now neutral on the legislation following amendments that added collaboration requirements, duplication protections and regional caps.

This plan passed unanimously out of the House Executive Committee Wednesday. It now moves to the House floor for further consideration.

"Community college baccalaureate programs will provide high-quality, affordable, and accessible options for students seeking to advance their education and careers in high-demand fields that desperately need them across the state," said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham.

House Bill 5319 has gained over 55 cosponsors since Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl (D-Northbrook) filed the plan in February.

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