Today, the Illinois Senate passed a conservation jobs plan with strong bipartisan support. Sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), the initiative would put youth, aged 18-25, and veterans back to work through the creation of the Illinois Young Adult Recreation Corps.

“Conservation jobs will help preserve Illinois’ national parks while putting at-risk youth and veterans back to work,” said Hunter, Majority Caucus Whip. “The Illinois Young Adult Recreation Corps will improve our communities by empowering young people and giving them transferable professional skills.”

The conservation measure is a part of a series of job initiatives geared toward at-risk youth across the state. Hunter, chairperson of the Subcommittee on Community Youth Employment, has worked across the aisle and with Gov. Quinn to increase employment in underserved communities.

The initiative would provide youth with career-developing and on-the-job training while protecting and restoring Illinois’ environment.

Veterans will see the Veteran Recreation Corps expanded from a six-month summer program to a year-long opportunity.

SB 3521, which passed 53-2-0, now goes to the House for further consideration.