Today, the Illinois Senate Judiciary Committee approved House Bill 3142. The bill will “ban the box” in the higher education admissions process and prevents public colleges and universities from asking about or considering a person’s criminal record for purposes of admission.
The following can be attributed to Khadine Bennett, Advocacy and Intergovernmental Affairs Director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois:
Higher education dramatically reduces recidivism and helps individuals build financially stable futures. HB 3142 will increase educational opportunities for individuals with criminal records who are seeking a better life.
Thank you to sponsor State Senator Pat McGuire for his leadership and our partner organization Heartland Alliance for spearheading this important legislation. We hope the Illinois Senate will take up a full vote as quickly as possible and get this proposal to the Governor for his signature.”
