Villivalam measure to expand pathways for in-state tuition eligibility

SPRINGFIELD - To create continued opportunities in higher education for immigrants, State Senator Ram Villivalam advanced a measure out of the Senate Higher Education Committee to expand pathways for an individual to be eligible for in-state tuition.

“Expanding eligibility pathways for in-state tuition is vital to providing affordable and accessible higher education for all people within our communities,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is important to continue diversifying avenues to access higher education to ensure a talented workforce in the state of Illinois.”

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Villivalam passes measure to expand access to grant funds for youth of exonerated individuals

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SPRINGFIELD – To provide additional access to the Grant Program for Exonerated Persons, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate that would allow unused program benefits to be passed on to a child or spouse.

“Wrongful convictions impact not only the previously convicted individual, but also their families,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Expanding program benefits for a child or spouse helps make up for the loss of resources that was felt due to the conviction.”

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Villivalam releases statement on appointment of new DCFS director

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement after the Senate confirmed the appointment of Heidi Mueller as Director of the Department of Child and Family Services:

“Ensuring that youth and families across the state have access to services and programs provided through the Department of Child and Family Services is vital. It is equally as vital to have a director that understands and prioritizes the needs of our state’s most vulnerable children."

“Heidi Mueller’s knowledge of compassionate care and understanding of promoting positive youth outcomes will be a breath of fresh air for DCFS."

“I am committed to working with her to uplift ideas to address the monumental challenges facing the agency.”

Villivalam measure would expand access to grant funds for youth of exonerated individuals

SPRINGFIELD – To provide additional access to the Grant Program for Exonerated Persons, State Senator Ram Villivalam advanced legislation through the Senate Higher Education Committee that would allow unused program benefits to be passed on to a child or spouse.

“Providing assistance to those who have been impacted through wrongful convictions is important,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “More than just the exonerated feel the effects of a wrongful conviction, and by expanding the access to these grants, it can help set everyone on a better path.”

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