Springfield, IL — Governor JB Pritzker has opened new horizons for Illinois students by allowing their 4-H and FFA program involvement to count towards school attendance.
With the passing of House Bill 3814, hands-on experiences gained on the farm now contribute to education. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton commended the move, highlighting its alignment with the administration’s commitment to cultivating agricultural leaders.
“Agriculture is our number one industry, and it’s the pride of Illinois. But in order to ensure its prosperous future, we must invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This new law is a major win not just for our students—but for the future of our agriculture industry.”
The bill will allow a stronger foundation for FFA and 4-H students whose attendance may have been jeopardized in the past to participate in various agriculture competitions. The state’s progressive stance amends the Illinois School Code, permitting students to have work-based learning participation affect overall school attendance.