SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker has signed a bill into law to expand a grant program for agriculture education teachers.

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

The new law 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 well-being."

The law also adjusts the state's required elected course selection from vocational to a m

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