SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan heading to the Illinois Senate floor could expand a grant program for agriculture education teachers. 

School districts can currently apply for a grant covering 50% of the personal service cost for agriculture teachers. 

This bill clarifies that teachers should receive 100% of that compensation for working 60 additional days or 400 hours outside their regular teaching duties.

"My district is home to the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences," said Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago). "I believe it’s critical that we are forward thinking with supporting agriculture education and strengthening an industry that is crucial for our state’s economic wellbeing."

Senate Bill 1605 also adjusts the state’s required elected course selection from vocational to the more representative career and technical education.

The plan passed unanimously out of the Senate Education Committee Tuesday and gained unanimous support in the House last week.

"The agriculture industry plays a vital role in our state," said Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield). "We want to encourage students to learn and understand the industry that boosts our economy and creates jobs."

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