In the News

Pioneer Press, August 23, 2007

State Sen. Susan Garrett says she will not accept the pay raise for legislators that was signed into law by the governor last week, and she will instead donate the money to local high schools to develop a scholarship program for special education students.

Garrett, D-29th, of Lake Forest, said she will donate the $3,000-plus a year pay raise into a scholarship fund for special education students who are planning to attend college. Each year, high school seniors from Garrett's district will be chosen to receive a scholarship to be put toward their college education.

Garrett said students with physical and mental disabilities often face greater challenges than other students who are looking to attend college, but there is little financial assistance available to them.

"Students with disabilities often have a tougher time because they have so many obstacles to overcome," she said. "There doesn't seem to be a program to help these students go to college. I want to encourage their efforts and help them in a small way."

Garrett said she felt it was "inappropriate" for legislators to accept a pay raise when the state itself is struggling to make ends meet. She said she introduced a resolution during the veto session last November to eliminate the legislative pay hikes, but the resolution was rejected.

Garrett said she ultimately voted for the bill approving the pay raises because it was attached to a larger supplemental appropriations bill that included vital money for hospitals, school construction and social services.

"I did not approve of this pay raise, and I don't feel it would be appropriate to put the money to personal use," she said. "I think it's much better spent to encourage and support the efforts of deserving special education students."

Garrett said she will be working directly with community high schools in her district to determine scholarship criteria. Anyone interested in the scholarship program should contact Garrett's office at (847) 433-2002.