The General Assembly finds that the clean energy sector is a growing area of the economy in the State of Illinois. The General Assembly further finds that State investment in the clean energy economy in Illinois can be a vehicle for expanding equitable access to public health, safety, a cleaner environment, quality jobs, and economic opportunity.
     It is in the public policy interest of the State to ensure that Illinois residents from communities disproportionately impacted by climate change, communities facing coal plant or coal mine closures, and economically disadvantaged communities and individuals experiencing barriers to employment have access to State programs and good jobs and career opportunities in growing sectors of the State economy. To promote those interests in the growing clean energy sector, the General Assembly hereby creates this Act to increase access to and opportunities for education, training, and support services these individuals need to succeed in the labor market generally and the clean energy sector specifically. The General Assembly further finds that the programs included in this Act are essential to equitable, statewide access to quality training, jobs, and economic opportunities across the clean energy sector.