SPRINGFIELD – As a strong supporter of agriculture education, State Senator Doris Turner is sponsoring a measure that would allow any agriculture-related course to satisfy the vocational education requirement for public high school students.

“Understanding agriculture is important in Illinois, and our curricula should reflect that,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Students should be able to use their agricultural studies to fulfill graduation requirements.”

Senate Bill 1605 would clarify in statute that agricultural education, agricultural business or any other agriculture-related course can satisfy the vocational education requirement for public high school students beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Currently, one year of music, art, foreign language, vocational education or speech and debate are required to graduate from high school.

“The agriculture industry plays a vital role in our state,” said Turner. “We want to encourage students to learn and understand the industry that boosts our economy and creates jobs.”

Senate Bill 1605 passed the Senate Education Committee with bipartisan support.