Chambana Sun

On August 14, Governor Pritzker signed House Bill 3814 in Springfield, Illinois. This legislation allows students involved in FFA and Illinois Extension 4-H programs to count their participation towards school attendance.

"House Bill 3814 will allow students attending agricultural learning events to count that towards their school attendance,” said Pritzker. “These learning opportunities cultivate professional development and responsibility in our youth, and their hands-on experiences ought to count towards their education. This new law is a major win not just for our students—but for the future of our agriculture industry."

The bill signing was supported by Illinois 4-H youth leaders and staff. Naomi Dolan, Chair of the 4-H Youth Leadership Team from Vermilion County, spoke on behalf of 4-H. "Through 4-H, members have the opportunity to develop a wide range of career skills including leadership, communications, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship skills,” Dolan stated. “These and other skills learned through 4-H are valuable in the workforce regardless of their chosen career path. In addition to career skills, 4-H members develop a strong work ethic, a sense of responsibility, and a commitment to community service, which are all qualities employers look for in potential employees. This bill allows 4-Hers and FFA members to freely participate in programming during a prime time in their lives when college, career, and personal development events are essential in ensuring their future success.”

Lisa Diaz, assistant dean and program leader for Illinois Extension 4-H, highlighted the significance of this legislation: “4-H and FFA create opportunities for youth to use their skills to address real-world issues and to develop as community leaders. This bill recognizes the importance of these hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom as critical to preparing youth for future success. We are thankful to the sponsors and supporters of this bill for removing barriers for more youth to freely participate in these valuable opportunities.”

For further details about Illinois Extension 4-H programs or membership information, visit https://4h.extension.illinois.edu.

Illinois 4-H is part of University of Illinois Extension's College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. The program focuses on empowering young people with leadership skills needed today while preparing them for future careers.