Wilhelmi opts out of controversial tuition-waiver program

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State Sen. A. J. Wilhelmi

Updated: February 11, 2012 8:18AM

JOLIET — State Sen. A.J. Wilhelmi, D-Joliet, has joined the growing ranks of Illinois legislators dropping out of the Legislative Tuition Waiver Program.

The program lets legislators waive state college tuition for selected students in their districts but has become increasing controversial amid exposure of abuses. The numbers of senators and representatives opting not to participate approached half of the state Legislature in 2011 and could grow this year.

“I think it’s going to be much more widespread to the point that we might eliminate (the program) legislatively,” Wilhelmi said Monday.

“The problems of the program outweigh its benefits,” Wilhelmi said.

Wilhelmi awarded a waiver to a nephew of Will County Executive Larry Walsh, an issue raised by the state senator’s opponent in his last election campaign. Wilhelmi, however, said his waivers were based in large part on financial need. There is no requirement that waiver recipients show need.

In 2011, 26 state senators and 51 state representatives chose not to participate, according to the Illinois State Board of Education. Those numbers include nine legislators whose districts go into Will or Grundy counties. Wilhelmi brings the number to 10.

Those opting out of the program will do so now because applications for the waivers typically begin arriving in January. Wilhelmi made his announcement Monday, saying constituents needed to know that he will not provide waivers this year.

In addition to alleged abuses — such as waivers being awarded to campaign donors’ children — the program is seen to make little sense in light of the state’s severe financial problems.

Sen. Christine Radogno, R-Lemont, noted that because the program simply allows legislators to waive tuition and does not provide a scholarship fund, it takes away money state colleges and universities need to educate students.

“Those who receive scholarships shift costs to other students,” Radogno said. Also, she said, “Legislative offices are not really equipped for this kind of program.”

Radogno, the Senate Republican leader, has proposed legislation to eliminate the program. But, she said, the Democratic majority leader has never called it for a vote.

Reform measures have been passed in the legislature. But Gov. Pat Quinn has vetoed reforms, saying the program should be eliminated entirely.

Radogno also does not participate in the program and encourages fellow Republican legislators not to take part.