SPRINGFIELD – Thousands of adults in Winnebago and Boone may get the chance to earn their high school diploma, thanks to legislation that was signed into law today.

The new law, sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) in the Senate, effectively eliminates the existing law prohibiting school districts from awarding high school diplomas to anyone over the age of 21.

“A high school diploma is nearly essential in today’s world, but not everyone is able to complete high school in the same amount of time,” Stadelman said. “These programs will give people a second chance and help them obtain job skills. Everyone benefits in the end, because a trained workforce is good for economic development in our communities.”

Non-profit entities, including community colleges, will also be allowed to establish programs that can award high school diplomas to adult learners.

The law is effective immediately.